Successful management of Babesiosis in a Dog – A Case Report

Abstract

A three-year-old intact male Labrador Retriever was presented to the Small Animal Clinic, Veterinary College Hospital, Bengaluru, with a history of pyrexia, anorexia, lethargy, and ascites. Clinical examination revealed pale mucous membranes, fever, generalized lymphadenopathy, and mild halitosis. Haematobiochemical analysis revealed anaemia, thrombocytopenia, neutrophilic leucocytosis, lymphocytopenia, hypoproteinaemia and elevated creatinine and ALT values. Peripheral blood smear examination revealed piroplasm-like structures, later confirmed as Babesia gibsoni by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Abdominal ultrasonography demonstrated moderate hepatomegaly, ascites, and splenomegaly. The dog was successfully treated with a triple therapy regimen consisting of doxycycline, clindamycin, and metronidazole. Supportive care included protein supplements, antacids, haematinics, hepatoprotectants, antioxidants, and B-complex vitamins.