Diagnosis and Therapeutic Management of Hepatozoon canis Infection in a Great Dane Dog

Abstract

The present case report aims to explain the molecular diagnosis and successful medical management of a rare haemoprotozoan infection in an adult male Great Dane Dog. A 3-year-old Great Dane was presented to the veterinary polyclinic in Thoothukudi with a history of intermittent fever, anorexia, weight loss, and hind limb lameness for the past two weeks. Clinical examination showed a pale conjunctival mucous membrane, cachexia, enlarged popliteal lymph nodes, and heavy tick infestation. Hematological parameters revealed normocytic, normochromic anemia (7.2 g/dL), neutrophilia (82%), and thrombocytopenia (85×103/µL). Blood biochemistry showed mildly elevated liver enzymes, hyperproteinemia (8.1 g/dL), and hypoalbuminemia (2.1 g/dL). Peripheral blood smear examination with Giemsa stain under the microscope revealed multiple Hepatozoon canis gamonts in neutrophils. Furthermore, confirmation was obtained using PCR targeting the species-specific 18S rRNA gene of Hepatozoon spp. confirming this case as Canine Hepatozoonosis. The dog was successfully treated with imidocarb dipropionate, doxycycline, and supportive therapy with a follow-up treatment, and the animal showed significant clinical improvement after one week of treatment. The 21-day post-treatment hematological and biochemical parameters revealed complete recovery, which clearly indicated the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.