Clinical Management of Babesiosis in Cattle: A Case Report

Abstract

| Babesiosis is a tick-transmitted disease caused by protozoans of the genus Babesia and it is characterized by haemolytic anemia and fever, with occasional hemoglobinuria and death. In the present study 4 cross bred cows aged between 4-6 years were presented to the college hospital with the history of fever, anorexia, passing coffee coloured urine, reduced milk yield, depression and reluctance to move. Examination of the blood smears confirmed the Babesia spp. in all the cows. Microscopy detection methods are still the cheapest and fastest methods used to identify Babesia parasites although their sensitivity and specificity are limited. Haematological studies revealed reduced Hb, PCV and TEC. Serum chemistry revealed hyperglycemia, hyperbilirubinemia, BUN, AST and hypoprotienemia. Urine was positive for haemoglobin, glucose and bile pigments. Three cows were treated successfully with diminazene aceturate (Berenil) at 3 mg/kg body weight, together with supportive therapy. Whereas, one cow died due to severe anemia.

Molecular detection of Babesia bovis along with haemato-biochemical alterations in large ruminants associated with babesiosis in central Punjab, Pakistan

“…The healthy cows had low mean values of LDH (Lactate dehydrogenase), and AST (Aspartate aminotransferase) as compared to that of cows infected with babesiosis. These observations are consistent with the findings of various researchersHussein et al, (2007);Gungi et al, (2016) and…”