Leukaemoid response in two dogs with Babesia canis infection

Uncomplicated canine babesiosis was diagnosed in 2 dogs based on the presence of trophozoites of Babesia canis in red blood cells on examination of a peripheral blood smear. The haemogram picture was that of a leukaemoid response with severe anaemia, high total white cell count and thrombocytopaenia. Treatment with babesiacidal drugs, together with blood transfusion, was successful in eliminating the Babesia parasites and reducing the leukaemoid response. The various leukograms of canine babesiosis and human malaria are compared and briefly discussed.