Canine Anaplasmosis is a disease caused by the bacteria Anaplasma phagocytophilum, which exclusively parasitises erythrocytes and can lead to a range of clinical signs in dogs. In recent years, with the increase in the number of dog breeders and the expansion of the range of activities of pet dogs, the incidence of this disease in the canine population has increased, posing a certain threat to the health of dogs. In this article, we will elaborate from the introduction of pathology, clinical symptoms, diagnostic methods, transmission, prevention and treatment methods.

Pathology of anaplasma in dogs

Canine anaplasma dogs is caused by anaplasma phagocytophilium in the genus anaplasmosis, which belong to the order Rickettsiae and are specialised intracellular parasitic microorganisms. They parasitise erythrocytes and grow and reproduce by ingesting intracellular nutrients. During infection, plasmodium-free bodies can destroy red blood cells, leading to the development of symptoms such as anaemia and jaundice. In addition, plasma-free bodies can stimulate the body to produce an immune response, triggering a series of inflammatory reactions.

Anaplasma Clinical symptoms dogs

The incubation period for dogs infected with Saprophytes is usually between a few days and a few weeks. At the beginning of the disease, the dog may have no obvious symptoms, but as the disease develops, it gradually shows typical symptoms such as depression, loss of appetite, increased body temperature, anaemia, jaundice, etc. Some dogs may also have diarrhoea. Some dogs may also show digestive symptoms such as diarrhoea and vomiting. In severe infections, dogs may die due to anaemia and organ failure.

Anaplasmosis test methods of anaplasma dog

Blood smear test for anaplasmosis: Blood samples are collected from sick dogs and blood smears are made, which are stained with Giemsa stain and observed under a microscope. The diagnosis can be confirmed if the presence or absence of plasma parasites in the red blood cells is found. However, the sensitivity of this method is low and may be missed due to small number of pathogens or periodic parasitism.

Serological testing for anaplasmosis: Determine whether the dog is infected with plasmodium free by detecting specific antibodies in the serum of the affected dog. Commonly used serological diagnostic methods include indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFA) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). These methods have high sensitivity and specificity, but may not be able to distinguish between current and previous infections.

Molecular biology anaplasmosis testing: Detection of plasma-free DNA in blood samples using techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is highly sensitive and specific. This method is suitable for early diagnosis and quantitative detection of pathogens.

Transmissibility of anaplasma

Canine anaplasma mainly transmitted through tick bites. When ticks bite dogs, they can inject the pathogen into the dogs, thus triggering infection. In addition, direct contact between sick dogs or through contaminated environment and articles may also lead to the spread of pathogens. Therefore, in the course of keeping dogs, attention should be paid to measures such as regular deworming and maintaining environmental hygiene to reduce the risk of infection.

Prevention and treatment methods

Prevention: The key to preventing canine anaplasmosis lies in controlling the transmission of ticks. People who keep dogs should regularly deworm their dogs and avoid entering areas where ticks are active. Meanwhile, keep the kennels clean and hygienic, and disinfect them regularly to reduce the survival rate of the pathogen in the environment.

Treatment: There is no specific drug that can completely cure canine anaplasmosis, but the clinical symptoms can be relieved by supportive treatment. For dogs with severe anaemia, blood transfusion treatment can be given; for symptoms such as high fever and jaundice, appropriate symptomatic treatment can be given. In the course of treatment, it is also necessary to pay close attention to the changes in the vital signs of the dogs and adjust the treatment plan in time.

In conclusion, canine plasmacytosis is a disease that poses a threat to the health of dogs. The dog-keeping population should enhance their knowledge of the disease, master its pathological features, clinical symptoms and diagnostic methods, and take effective preventive and therapeutic measures to protect the health and safety of dogs. At the same time, the relevant departments should also strengthen the monitoring, prevention and control of the disease to reduce the risk of its spread in the canine population.

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