Comparative analysis of diagnostic methods and genetic analysis for canine vector-borne diseases in Thailand

Canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs), transmitted by arthropods, are widespread globally and pose significant health risks to dogs. Diagnosing CVBDs, particularly co-infections, is challenging for laboratory technicians. This study in Thailand evaluated 270 canine blood samples for vector-borne pathogens using microscopy, conventional PCR (cPCR), and the Vcheck M Canine Vector 8 Panel (Vcheck). Microscopy was used for initial screening, while cPCR and Vcheck tested for exposure to eight CVBDs-causing genera (Ehrlichia, Hepatozoon, Mycoplasma, Anaplasma, Rickettsia, Babesia, Leishmania, and Bartonella). Among 220 dogs, infection rates were high in suspected cases: 68.9% by microscopy, 73.7% by cPCR, and 76.3% by Vcheck. Notably, 20.0% of infected dogs had co-infections, primarily with E. canis and B. vogeli. The remaining 50 dogs were negative by microscopic examination. Agreement between methods ranged from moderate to almost perfect. Vcheck demonstrates significant potential for CVBDs epidemiological surveillance, offering a valuable tool for researchers and clinicians in Thailand and beyond.