Investigation of Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma platys from Dogs in Thailand, with Molecular Characterization and Haematological Profiles
Investigation of Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma platys from Dogs in Thailand, with Molecular Characterization and Haematological Profiles
Supawadee Piratae1*, Noraphat Khiewkham2, Nattawut Maungmungkun2, Chanakan Tippornwong2, Tossapol Seerintra2, Sirikanda Thanasuwan3, Luyen Thi Phung4
ABSTRACT
Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma platys are rickettsial pathogens that cause infections in the blood and have adverse health effects in animals, especially dogs and other canids. PCR targeting the 16S rRNA gene was performed to determine the prevalence of ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis in 127 dogs collected from Rayong province, Thailand. To confirm the identification of these two pathogens, PCR was performed to detect the citrate synthase (gltA) gene followed by sequencing. In addition, the haematological responses of dogs infected with E. canis and A. platys were evaluated. By PCR, 22.8% (95%CI: 15.9-31.1) of the dog samples in this population were positive for one or both pathogens. Of these dogs, 18.1% were infected with E. canis while 7% were infected with A. platys. Mixed infections were found in 2.4%. Infection with E. canis was significantly related to hematocrit, haemoglobin, red blood cell (RBC), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and platelet levels (p < 0.05). In addition, there were significant differences in white blood cell (WBC) and platelet levels between A. platys-infected and uninfected groups (p < 0.05). The results confirmed that E. canis and A. platys pathogens are circulating in dog populations in Thailand. This information will benefit veterinarians and dog owners by indicating the importance of regular ectoparasite control which is an effective strategy to control ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis.
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