First report of canine African trypanosomosis in the UK

A six-year-old neutered male Jack Russell terrier was presented two years after importation into the UK from southern Africa with severe anaemia and abdominal distension. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed the presence of hepato-splenomegaly and ascites. A diagnosis of trypanosomosis was made by blood smear examination. Shortly after admission the dog collapsed and died. PCR analysis revealed a single infection with Trypanosoma congolense savannah type. This is the first reported case of canine African trypanosomosis in Europe and suggests that chronic trypanosomosis may allow importation of the disease in apparently asymptomatic animals, even with extended quarantine periods.