Clinical management of canine babesiosis.
OBJECTIVE
To review and summarize current information regarding epidemiology, pathogenesis, and pathophysiology leading to the various clinical syndromes associated with canine babesiosis. Diagnosis, treatment, preventative strategies, and zoonotic implications are discussed.


BACKGROUND
Babesiosis is caused by hemoprotozoa of the genus Babesia. Numerous species of Babesia exist worldwide. An increased incidence of babesiosis is described, especially in North America. The babesial organism spends the majority of its life cycle within the erythrocyte of the definitive host, resulting in hemolysis, with or without systemic complications.


METHODS
Definitive diagnosis depends on direct visualization of the organism on blood smear or polymerase chain reaction. A positive serologic antibody test indicates exposure with or without active infection.


METHODS
Antiprotozoal drugs, antimicrobials, and supportive care are the mainstays of babesiosis therapy.


CONCLUSIONS
Prognosis depends on the severity of disease, which in turn depends on both organism and host factors. Clinical syndromes associated with a poorer prognosis include red biliary syndrome, acute renal failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome, neurologic dysfunction, acute pancreatitis, cardiac dysfunction, and hypoglycemia.
Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Animal Medical Center, New York, NY 10065, USA. ashley.ayoob@amcny.org
Ashley L
AL
Ayoob
Susan G
SG
Hackner
Jennifer
J
Prittie
D000818:Animals; D000981:Antiprotozoal Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001404:Babesiosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000469:parasitology / Q000662:veterinary*; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000469:parasitology; D004285:Dogs; D006790:Host-Parasite Interactions; D011379:Prognosis; D011634:Public Health; D012307:Risk Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D015047:Zoonoses / Q000469:parasitology / Q000635:transmission
D000981:Antiprotozoal Agents