Mycoplasma haemocanis (formerly known as Haemobartonella canis) is the cause of haemotropic mycoplasmosis in dogs. The parasites attach to the surface of the red blood cell, and have the potential to cause severe alterations of the cell’s shape, resulting in anaemia.
A three year old Rottweiler dog was presented to the University Veterinary Hospital with symptoms of lethargy and reduced appetite. Upon clinical examination pyrexia (103º – 105º F), pale mucous membranes and lymphadenopathy were noticed. Blood smear examination revealed the presence of small coccoid organisms in the periphery of the RBC suggestive of haemoplasma. Presence of Mycoplasma hemocanis was confirmed using PCR. Hematobiochemical alterations included microcytic anaemia, granulocytosis, and thrombocytopenia, decreased haematocrit values along with hypoalbuminemia and elevated liver enzymes. Animal was successfully treated with parental administration of oxytetracycline and prednisolone along with supportive therapy.
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