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BACKGROUND: Comprehensive descriptions of equids with granulocytic anaplasmosis (EGA) with neurologic or muscle disease and other atypical presentations are scarce in the literature. OBJECTIVE: Describe the clinical signs, laboratory findings, treatment, and outcome of equids with EGA with emphasis on neurologic and muscle disease. ANIMALS: Thirty-eight horses, 1 donkey. METHODS: Retrospective study. Equids with EGA were included. The electronic data base was searched from January 2000 to December 2022 using the words anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, granulocytic, and rickettsia. Signalment and clinical data were reviewed. Data were evaluated for normality using Shapiro-Wilk test. Parametric and nonparametric statistics were used for normally and non-normally distributed data. RESULTS: Common (41%) and other (59%) presentations were seen in horses ≥ 4 years of age (median, 14 years) with an overrepresentation of males (77%). Neurologic disease was common (41%), mainly presenting as diffuse symmetrical proprioceptive ataxia. Brain disease was less common manifesting as obtundation and cranial nerve deficits. Muscle disease was less common, with QH breeds with the variant causing myosin heavy chain myopathy (MYHM) having severe disease. Cavitary effusion, cardiomyopathy and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) were uncommon. Clinical laboratory results varied depending on disease stage. Muscle enzyme activities were significantly higher in horses with muscle disease. Outcome was favorable with prompt tetracycline treatment. Death and long-term sequelae were not reported. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Common and atypical presentations of EGA have a favorable outcome with prompt tetracycline treatment. Quarter horse breeds with muscle disease should be genotyped for MYHM.

Anaplasma phagocytophilum (A. phagocytophilum) is an emerging zoonotic pathogen causing human granulocytic anaplasmosis, linked to small mammal reservoirs that harbor various zoonotic pathogens, underscoring their importance in public health and ecology. This study seeks to determine the prevalence of A. phagocytophilum in small mammals using PCR, then sequence and genotype positive samples, and assess infection risk factors. Small mammals were seasonally captured and a nested polymerase chain reaction (nested-PCR) was conducted targeting the 16S rRNA gene on spleen samples to detect A. phagocytophilum infection from three counties in western Yunnan province, China. Positive samples were sequenced and genotyped, revealing genetic diversity and regional clustering of the pathogen. A total of 1,605 small mammals belonging to 30 species, 18 genera, 6 families, 3 orders were captured seasonally and screened in this region, yielding a 0.93% infection rate with A. phagocytophilum (15/1605). Significant variations in infection rates were observed across different species, counties, and habitats. The 16Sr RNA genes of A. phagocytophilum were categorized into two distinct clades, indicating notable genetic diversity. The identification of genetic variants in spleen samples underscores the potential public health risk and the critical importance of the One Health approach in disease surveillance. Our findings emphasize the necessity for continuous monitoring and highlight the value of nested-PCR testing on spleen samples for accurate prevalence assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Equine granulocytic anaplasmosis (EGA) is a tick‐borne disease of clinical importance in Southwest Virginia. The diagnosis is based on clinical signs, detection of morulae on a blood smear, PCR and/or detection of antibodies 2–4 weeks post‐infection. A growing interest in stall‐side diagnostic tests has led to an increased use of the IDEXX SNAP 4DX Plus Test® for vector‐borne diseases including EGA. Objectives: The objectives of the study were to determine the seroprevalence of Anaplasma spp. in Southwest Virginia and examine the clinical and diagnostic features of symptomatic horses in the same region. Methods: Seroprevalence was evaluated in horses presented for Coggins testing in 2013 and 2019–2020. Clinical and diagnostic features were evaluated in horses presenting with compatible clinical signs from September 2019 to August 2020. Seroprevalence was determined using the IDEXX SNAP 4DX Plus Test®. Complete blood count, blood and buffy coat smears for morulae detection, PCR, immunofluorescence antibody testing (IFAT) and the IDEXX SNAP 4DX Plus Test® were performed on horses with clinical signs of EGA. Results: Seroprevalence of Anaplasma spp. was 8.5% in 2013 and 11.2% in 2019–2020 (p = 0.43). 35% (6/17) of horses with clinical signs compatible with EGA had confirmed infection via PCR analysis. Three of these had morulae detected on blood smear and one had a positive IDEXX SNAP 4DX Plus Test®. Examination slides made from the buffy coat did not improve detection of morulae. The most common haematological abnormality was thrombocytopaenia. Conclusions: Seroprevalence of Anaplasma spp. is similar to other endemic areas in the United States. In active cases, diagnosis is best made via PCR. As anticipated, the IDEXX SNAP 4DX Plus Test® was not appropriate for the diagnosis of active infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The prevalence of Babesia coinfecting tick-borne zoonoses and mortality outcomes are not fully elucidated. The objective of the present study was to determine babesiosis coinfection prevalence rates and estimate the association with severe disease and mortality. Methods We queried the TriNetX database between 2015 and 2022 for patients with babesiosis. The prevalence of Babesia coinfecting tick-borne zoonoses was estimated. The analysis focused on babesiosis coinfection with Borrelia burgdorferi , ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis. The exposure was coinfection, and the control group was the Babesia -only group. The primary outcome was 90-day mortality from the diagnosis of Babesia. Secondary outcomes were prevalence of coinfection, association of coinfection with acute respiratory distress syndrome, multiorgan failure, and disseminated intravascular coagulation. A multivariable logistic regression model was employed to estimate the disease severity and mortality risk associated with coinfections. Results Of the 3521 patients infected with Babesia , the mean age (SD) was 56 (18) years, 51% were male, and 78% were White. The frequency of overall malignancies, lymphomas, and asplenia was 19%, 2%, and 2%, respectively. Temporal distribution of coinfections followed the overall babesiosis pattern, peaking in the summer months. The prevalence of 1 or more coinfections was 42% (95% CI, 40%–43%). The rate of coinfection with Borrelia burgdorferi was the highest at 41% (95% CI, 39%–42%), followed by ehrlichiosis at 3.7% (95% CI, 3.1%–4.4%) and anaplasmosis at only 0.3% (95% CI, 0.2%–0.6%). Doxycycline was more likely to be prescribed in the coinfection group than the Babesia -only group (25% vs 18%; P <.0001). Overall, 90-day mortality was 1.4% (95% CI, 1.0%–1.8%). After adjusting for potential confounding factors, compared with the babesiosis-only group, the likelihood of 90-day mortality was lower in the coinfection group (adjusted odds ratio, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.20–0.91). Severe disease did not differ significantly between the 2 groups. Conclusions In this extensive study of >3000 patients with babesiosis in the United States, 4 in 10 patients had coinfecting tick-borne zoonoses. The prevalence rates of coinfection were highest with Borrelia burgdorferi, followed by ehrlichiosis, and lowest with anaplasmosis. Coinfection with other tick-borne infections was not associated with severe disease. It is plausible that this finding is due to the likelihood of treatment of coinfections with doxycycline. Future studies are needed to investigate the possible therapeutic benefits of doxycycline in babesiosis patients as, to date, no trials with doxycycline have been conducted in human patients with Babesia infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bovine anaplasmosis is an infectious vector-borne disease caused by bacteria of the genus Anaplasma, which have a wide global distribution and represent a high economic burden for agriculture. The use of molecular genetic techniques has increased our knowledge of the species diversity of Anaplasma spp. and naturally susceptible animals. Monitoring studies allow us to assess the level of infection in herds, as well as the involvement of natural vectors in the processes of maintaining and spreading infection. Despite the high prevalence of Theileria and Babesia in cattle in Kazakhstan, there is no information on the distribution and species diversity of Anaplasma spp in this country. As part of this work, 7027 DNA samples isolated from the whole blood of cattle from 175 settlements in all 17 Kazakhstan regions were PCR-tested for the presence of Anaplasma spp. Anaplasma carriers were found in 1.3% (90 out of 7027) of the tested animals in 9 of the 17 regions of Kazakhstan. The highest percentage of infected animals was recorded in Turkistan (South Kazakhstan) and North Kazakhstan with 4.46% and 2.48% positive samples, respectively. The partial sequencing of 16S rRNA and the groEL gene allowed us to identify five species of Anaplasma: A. centrale, A. marginale, Candidatus Anaplasma Mongolica, A. ovis, and Unknown Anaplasma with infection rates of 0.63%, 0.44%, 0.13%, 0.01%, and 0.01%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diseases of veterinary importance, such as bovine Anaplasmosis, cause significant economic losses. Due to this, the study of various proteins of the causal agent Anaplasma marginale has focused on surface proteins. However, a vaccine for this disease is not yet available. To this end, in this work, moonlighting proteins (MLPs) are presented as an alternative approach for the design of immunogens against A. marginale. Methods: The proteins of the strain MEX-15-099-01 were analyzed, and its MLPs were identified. Subsequently, four virulence-associated MLP genes were selected and identified using PCR. The proteins were analyzed using a structural homology approach and the collection of B-cell epitopes was predicted for each MLP. Finally, a pair of AmEno peptides were synthesized and the antigenic potential was tested using an iELISA. Results: Our bioinformatics analysis revealed the potential of AmEno, AmGroEl, AmEF-Tu, and AmDnaK proteins as promising candidates for designing immunogens. The PCR allowed the gene sequence identification in the genome of the strain MEX-15-099-01. Notably, AmEno-derived synthetic peptides showed antigenicity in an ELISA. Conclusions: Our study has shed light on the potential use of MLPs for immunogen design, demonstrating the antigenic potential of AmEno. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaplasma is an intracellular alphaproteobacteria that infects diverse blood cell types in animal hosts including small ruminants. Epidemiological and risk factors information on zoonotic anaplasmosis with respect to anaplasmosis in sheep and goats are scarce. Therefore, the objective of the current study was to estimate the prevalence, risk factors of anaplasmosis and phylogenetic investigation of A. capra in sheep and goats from Faisalabad district, Pakistan. Briefly, 384 blood samples were randomly collected from sheep and goats of Faisalabad district, Pakistan, during January to May 2022. The samples were processed for the detection of Anaplasma targeting 16S rRNA gene using PCR. The data regarding disease determinants were collected using a predesigned questionnaire. Out of 384 samples, 131 samples were found positive for Anaplasma spp. with a prevalence rate of 34.11%. The results indicated a significantly higher prevalence of anaplasmosis in goats (41.88%) compared to sheep (22.00%). In addition, the chi square indicated that housing type, tick infestation, gender, tick control practices, age, mix farming, and hygiene were significantly associated with the occurrence of disease. The analysis of multivariate logistic regression expressed gender as the significant risk factor (p = 0.0001, OR = 1.757, CI = 1.305–2.366). The acquired sequences revealed four novel isolates of A. capra (Genbank accession numbers ON834323, ON838209, ON838210, and ON838211). The phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene of A. capra revealed three distinct clusters with 99–100% homology with other isolates from different countries. Our isolates showed higher similarity with isolates from China (KM206273, KP314237, MT799937), Pakistan (ON238129, ON238130, ON238131), Angola (MT898988), India (MZ558066), Iran (MW692362), and Turkey (MT632469) isolated from human, sheep, ticks, goats, cattle, Gaddi goat, Persian Onager (Equus hemionus onager), and Turkish goats, respectively. In conclusion, A. capra is endemic in Punjab, Pakistan, there is a need to conduct large scale surveillance studies to assess the status of this pathogen at human-animal interface as well as to develop effective preventive and control strategies to reduce the economic losses associated with anaplasmosis in small ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "Human Co-infection with Rickettsia spp., Borrelia garinii, and Orientia tsutsugamushi in South Korea" published in Systematic & Applied Acarology discusses the detection of tick-borne pathogens in patients with acute fever of unknown origin in South Korea. The study identified co-infection of Rickettsia spp., Orientia tsutsugamushi, and Borrelia garinii in human blood samples. The research highlights the complexity of tick-borne infections and the challenges they pose for diagnosis and treatment. The study emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring of environmental changes and tick populations to address the evolving landscape of infectious diseases. [Extracted from the article]

Anaplasmosis is a disease in dogs caused by intracellular gram-negative bacteria belonging to the Anaplasmataceae family. A 6-month-old mixed-breed golden retriever was examined at the Laboratory of Veterinary Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Udayana University, with complaints of itching, tick infestation, weakness, and decreased appetite. The clinical examination revealed pale mucous membranes in the mouth and eye conjunctiva, as well as an infestation of Rhipicephalus ticks on the skin. Routine hematological examination indicated the presence of anemia and thrombocytopenia. Blood smear examination confirmed the presence of Anaplasma sp. Treatment was provided in a causative and supportive manner. Causative therapy involved the administration of doxycycline at a dose of 10 mg/kg body weight orally for twenty-eight days, ivermectin at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg body weight injected subcutaneously every two weeks for four weeks. Supportive therapy included the daily administration of Fufang E'jiao Jiang ®(Dong E Ejiao Co, Ltd., Shandong, China) at 2 ml/day and Sangobion® (PT. Merck Tbk, Jakarta, Indonesia) at one tablet per day for fourteen days. Treatment with doxycycline, ivermectin, Fufang E'jiao Jiang® (Dong E Ejiao Co, Ltd., Shandong, China), and Sangobion® (PT. Merck Tbk, Jakarta, Indonesia) resulted in a positive outcome for the dog, with improved activity, hair growth, good appetite, and the absence of ticks.

Human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA) is a tick-borne infection caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Only seven cases of HGA have been reported in Japan to date. We report the case of a 61-year-old female farmer who developed HGA with rash and rhabdomyolysis. The patient had fever and erythema covering the entire body, including the palms. An induration with an eschar was observed on the right leg, indicating that the patient had been bitten by a tick. Elevated serum creatinine and creatinine kinase levels and hematuria indicated rhabdomyolysis. We suspected Japanese spotted fever, a tick-borne illness caused by Rickettsia Japonica , and administered minocycline and ciprofloxacin for a week. Transient neutropenia and thrombocytopenia were observed, but the symptoms improved. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and antibody tests for R. japonica and Orientia tsutsugamushi , which causes scrub typhus, were both negative. The PCR test for severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus was also negative. Antibodies against A. phagocytophilum –related proteins were detected by western blotting, indicating seroconversion of IgG with paired serum samples, and the patient was diagnosed with HGA. HGA should be suspected in acute febrile patients with a history of outdoor activity and cytopenia, with or without a rash. A testing system and the accumulation of cases in Japan are necessary for the early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of HGA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Piroplasmosis, a disease of domestic and wild animals, is caused by tick-borne protozoa of the genera Babesia and Theileria, while anaplasmosis is caused by tick-borne bacteria of genera Anaplasma. Hyalomma dromedarii is the most dominant tick species infesting camels in Egypt and act as a vector of piroplasms, Anaplasma, Rickettsia and Ehrlichia spp. The available information concerning the detection of these pathogens in H. dromedarii infesting camels is limited. The present study aimed to evaluate the status of these pathogens in H. dromedarii ticks over four seasons of a year, in addition to investigate the infections of piroplasms and Anaplasmataceae besides their genetic diversity starting from June 2021 till April 2022. A total of 275 semi-engorged females of H. dromedarii were collected from different slaughtered camels, Toukh city slaughterhouse then investigated by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) to detect piroplasms (Babesia spp., Theileria spp.) and Anaplasmataceae DNA targeting 18 S rRNA and 16 S rRNA genes, respectively followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analyses. Overall, piroplasms were detected in 38 ticks (13.8%), Babesia spp. was detected in 35 ticks (12.7%), while Theileria spp. was detected in one tick (0.4%). Anaplasmataceae was detected in 57 ticks (20.7%). Mixed infections of piroplasms and Anaplasmataceae were detected in 13 ticks (5%). Single infection either with piroplasms or Anaplasmataceae was detected in 25 (9%) and 44 (16%) ticks, respectively. The highest monthly rate of piroplasms was in April (spring) and Anaplasmataceae was in July (summer). Sequence analysis revealed that Babesia bigemina, Wolbachia spp. and Anaplasma marginale are the most dominant species in the examined tick samples. To the best of our knowledge, this study confirms the presence of B. bigemina, Wolbachia spp. and A. marginale in H. dromedarii in Egypt by sequencing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Although Anaplasma (A.) phagocytophilum infection in cats is considered to be less frequent compared with dogs, there is evidence indicating that the risk of the infection in cats might be underestimated. The study aimed to find out if infections in cats are underestimated and to discover which factors increase the risk of infection. Blood samples of 1015 cats across Europe were tested for A. phagocytophilum DNA from 2017 to 2022. The number of samples sent for testing increased over the 6 years. Anaplasma phagocytophilum DNA was found in 76 out of 1015 cats (7.5%). Infections were more common in Northern Europe than in Central or Southern Europe. During summer, the number of positive samples was significantly higher compared with winter (p = 0.047). The risk for A. phagocytophilum infection in cats should not be underestimated, especially in Northern Europe. Preventing tick bites is essential for cats' health all over Europe, not just in the Mediterranean regions. Infections with Anaplasma (A.) phagocytophilum in cats seem to be rare. The study aimed to determine whether infections in cats are underestimated and to identify the risk factors for infection. Blood samples of 1015 cats across Europe (2017–2022), sent to IDEXX Laboratories, Germany, were tested for A. phagocytophilum DNA. The influence of the cats' origin on A. phagocytophilum infection was assessed by univariable analysis, while multivariable logistic regression evaluated associations with the cats' sex and age, and the years, and seasonality of the samples' submission. Furthermore, univariable linear regression was used to determine patterns in PCR orders. The number of submitted samples increased significantly during the 6 years (p = 0.042). Anaplasma phagocytophilum DNA was detected in 76/1015 of cats (7.5%, 95% CI 6.0–9.3%). Infections were significantly more common in Northern compared to Central (p < 0.001, OR: 8.70) and Southern Europe (p < 0.001, OR: 39.94). A significantly higher likelihood for infections during the summer compared with winter (p = 0.047, OR: 3.13) was found. Bacteremia with A. phagocytophilum in European cats is not uncommon. Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection should be considered an important risk, particularly in Northern Europe. Effective tick prevention is crucial for managing feline health across Europe, not just in the Mediterranean region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The obligatory intracellular bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum causes human granulocytic anaplasmosis, an emerging zoonosis. Anaplasma has limited biosynthetic and metabolic capacities, yet it effectively replicates inside of inclusions/vacuoles of eukaryotic host cells. Here, we describe a unique Type IV secretion system (T4SS) effector, ER-Golgi exit site protein of Anaplasma (EgeA). In cells infected by Anaplasma, secreted native EgeA, EgeA-GFP, and the C-terminal half of EgeA (EgeA-C)-GFP localized to Anaplasma-containing inclusions. In uninfected cells, EgeA-C-GFP localized to cis-Golgi, whereas the N-terminal half of EgeA-GFP localized to the ER. Pull-down assays identified EgeA-GFP binding to a transmembrane protein in the ER, Transport and Golgi organization protein 1 (TANGO1). By yeast two-hybrid analysis, EgeA-C directly bound Sec1 family domain-containing protein 1 (SCFD1), a host protein of the cis-Golgi network that binds TANGO1 at ER-Golgi exit sites (ERES). Both TANGO1 and SCFD1 localized to the Anaplasma inclusion surface. Furthermore, knockdown of Anaplasma EgeA or either host TANGO1 or SCFD1 significantly reduced Anaplasma infection. TANGO1 and SCFD1 prevent ER congestion and stress by facilitating transport of bulky or unfolded proteins at ERES. A bulky cargo collagen and the ER-resident chaperon BiP were transported into Anaplasma inclusions, and several ER stress marker genes were not up-regulated in Anaplasma-infected cells. Furthermore, EgeA transfection reduced collagen overexpression-induced BiP upregulation. These results suggest that by binding to the two ERES proteins, EgeA redirects the cargo-adapted ERES to pathogen-occupied inclusions and reduces ERES congestion, which facilitates Anaplasma nutrient acquisition and reduces ER stress for Anaplasma survival and proliferation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study detected Anaplasma marginale in calvesusing blood smears and nested PCR (nPCR) and to compare the results with the clinical signs presented by calves on a dairy farm in the municipality of Castanhal, located northeast of the state Pará (1°07'19.1"S and 47°53'53.0"W), eastern Amazon. To this end, 192 blood samples were collected from 24 animals at 1-20, 21-41 and 42-60 days of age. Blood smears and nPCR with primers for the msp5 gene were performed. The prevalence of A. marginale was 61.5% (118/192) for the blood smear technique and nPCR (msp5). The manifestation of clinical signs of anaplasmosis also increased significantly over the course of the study (P < 0.0001), being lower in animals aged 1-20 days, but increasing among those aged 21-41 and 42-60 days. These signs were characterized by apathy, fever, weight loss, diarrhea, dehydration, and hypochromic mucous membranes. Regarding the evaluation of the diagnostic techniques, no significant difference was observed in the detection of A. marginale between the blood smear and nPCR (P = 0.995), but the agent's rickets increased on Day 47 (P < 0.01) in both tests, thereby demonstrating a near-linear pattern of increase in rickets over the 60 days, with a consequent decrease in globular volume. This shows that of the 24 animals studied, 21 were infected at some point during the study period. Additionally, there was no significant difference between blood smears and nPCR, probably due to medium and high parasitemia, which were directly related to the clinical signs and decrease in globular volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate the molecular epidemiology, risk factors, and haemato-biochemical changes in anaplasmosis in Indian dromedary camels. Blood samples collected from 103 camels were analysed using blood smear examination and semi-nested PCR based on the 16s rRNA gene to diagnose anaplasmosis. The prevalence of anaplasmosis was estimated to be 42.72% (95% CI: 33.59–52.37) by PCR assay and 16.5% (95% CI: 10.47–24.95%) by blood smear examination. Phylogenetic analysis of six partial sequences of 16s rRNA gene obtained in the present study indicated the involvement of multiple Anaplasma species, including A. marginale and A. platys, showing genetic similarity with cattle strains. A novel genotype related to A. camelii/A. cinensis/A. platys group was also identified. Hemato-biochemical examination revealed mild anaemia, increased serum urea nitrogen and creatinine levels, and decreased total protein and albumin levels in Anaplasma-positive animals. The infections were largely subclinical in nature, except in one camel that revealed fever, inappetence, and pale mucous membrane and responded well to treatment with oxytetracycline. To our knowledge, this is the first molecular study on camel anaplasmosis in India, indicating a high prevalence of infection and involvement of multiple Anaplasma species with potential risk for interspecies transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Rare disease. Background: Anaplasmosis, or human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA), is a tick-borne diseased caused by a gram-negative, intracellular bacterium, Anaplasma phagocytophilum. HGA usually presents with mild symptoms but can be more severe. This report describes a 67-year-old male resident of rural Pennsylvania, admitted to the hospital after a fall, who developed fatal acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) associated with human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA) following transmission of Anaplasma phagocytophilum by a tick bite (Ixodes scapularis). Case Report: A 67-year-old man, resident of rural Pennsylvania, with history of diabetes mellitus, presented after falling from a 7-foot-tall ladder, sustaining right-sided hemopneumothorax, multiple right rib fractures, and unstable T12 vertebra fracture. He required tube thoracostomy and underwent T9-L2 posterior spinal fusion surgery. His initial labs showed leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and elevated transaminase levels. His course was complicated by cardiac arrest and acute respiratory failure, consistent with severe ARDS. He received high positive endexpiratory pressure (PEEP) ventilation, prone positioning, and neuromuscular paralysis to improve refractory hypoxemia. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) for bacterial, fungal, viral pathogens, Covid-19, respiratory viral panel, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Chlamydia pneumoniae were negative. his family withdrew medical care, knowing the patient's own wishes, and the patient died. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for Anaplasma DNA came back positive after the patient's death. His peripheral smear was then examined, showing morulae inside the cytoplasm of infected neutrophils. Conclusions: This report describes the atypical presentation of a case of HGA and highlights that in parts of the world where tick-borne diseases are endemic, disease awareness, high index of clinical suspicion, and early diagnosis and management are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ticks are blood‐sucking parasite and transmit pathogens to humans, domestic and wild animals. Ticks are seriously damage the production of sheep and goats, resulting in heavy economic loss to farmers. The present study investigated microscopic and molecular identification of ticks and tick‐borne anaplasmosis infesting sheep and goats in three agro‐ecological zones of Pakistan. The collected ticks were identified at species level based on their morphological features through microscopy by using taxonomic keys. Four Rhipicephalus (R.) species namely: R. guilhoni Rh. geigyi, R. annulatus, R. pulchellus, two Haemaphysalis (Hae) spp. Hae. sulcate, Hae. punctate, one Ixodes ricinus and Hyalomma anatolicum were identified. The morphological variations in their body sizes, scutal pattern, female genital opening, spiracular plate length and male adanal plate were recorded. Furthermore, we assessed the effectiveness of utilizing the 16S rRNA gene sequence to differentiate Anaplasma samples at the species level. Microscopically suspected positive blood samples for Anaplasma were subjected to DNA extraction. Anaplasma was observed in the blood of 14 animals. The sequence similarity between Anaplasma marginale and the reference genome were 99.25%, while below this value indicating a distinct species. Phylogenetic analysis revealed close similarity with A. marginale isolates from Iran, Vietnam and Pakistan This study contributes to the epidemiology of ticks and TBPs in the KP province and highlights the importance of proactive TBP surveillance in livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assesses the number of reported cases of canine anaplasmosis and ehrlichiosis in the district of Rímac, Lima, Peru, as well as their association with factors involved in the occurrence of these diseases. In these cases, the presence of anemia and thrombocytopenia is common, which affect normal hematological parameters. All the medical records of the 2018-2021 period of canine patients of the Municipal Veterinary Clinic of Rímac located in the district of Rímac, Lima - Peru, were sampled. The Chisquare statistical test and the contingency coefficient were used to determine the association. All variables were also analyzed using logistic binomial regression. A significance level of 0.05 was used. Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma spp. were diagnosed in 4.308 % (224/5,200) of medical records. The Chi-square test was used to evaluate the association with the factors of sex, race, age, and season of the year, concluding that there was an association of the diseases with the age group; at a 95 % confidence interval, it was observed that the frequency of cases of E. canis and Anaplasma spp. was 95.98 % and 1.79 %, respectively, and the co-infection of both pathogens was 2.23 %. The logistic regression model included the effects of live weight and sex on the diagnosis of ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis, which were significant. There was a significant association between the diagnosis of canine ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis with age and weight, but there was no effect of breed and season of the year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An 11‐year‐old female spayed German Wirehaired Pointer with a 1‐week history of lethargy, hyporexia, diarrhea, and coughing presented with pericardial effusion causing cardiac tamponade. An echocardiogram revealed no structural cause for pericardial effusion. The pericardial effusion was an exudate with mixed macrophagic and neutrophilic inflammation. Morulae occasionally were found within neutrophils. The pericardial fluid and blood were qPCR and cPCR positive for Anaplasma phagocytophilum (NC State University, Vector‐borne Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, Raleigh, NC). The dog's blood was negative by ELISA (Vetscan Flex4 Rapid Test, Zoetis, Parsippany, NJ) for A. phagocytophilum antibodies at initial presentation and subsequently positive (SNAP4DxPlus, IDEXX, Westbrook, ME) 7 days later. After pericardiocentesis and administration of doxycycline (5 mg/kg PO q12h for 14 days), a repeat echocardiogram performed 1 month later showed no recurrence of pericardial effusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cases of tick-borne diseases have been increasing, largely due to greater suburban development, which leads to more encounters with ticks, and changing climate patterns. This article reviews the most common tick-borne illnesses in the US. An overview of etiology, assessment findings, and treatment is provided for each illness reviewed. Emphasis is placed on early recognition and treatment to prevent significant morbidity and mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anaplasmosis, transmitted biologically and mechanically, is one of the most prevalent diseases responsible for high production costs worldwide. In this research, the prevalence and risk factors of anaplasmosis in Simmental cattle raised in the Peruvian Amazon were evaluated. 266 blood samples were collected from bovines of different categories such as calves male, calves females, heifers <1.3 years, heifers >1.3 years, steers, bulls, and cows from the districts of Omia and Molinopampa. The enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique was used to detect antibodies against Anaplasma marginale. Of the 266 animals sampled, 67% were positive for A. marginale. A higher prevalence was determined in the district of Omia (99.3%), while in the district of Molinopampa, 28.7% was obtained. A prevalence of A. marginale was recorded in females (67.7%) and in males (64.8%) (p > 0.05). There is a significant association of the disease with the category of cattle, verifying the highest prevalence of A. marginale in calves male, heifer >1.3 years, and bull. The multiple correspondence analysis shows that San Mateo, Puma Marca, Mashuyacu, Primavera, and Los Olivos have a higher prevalence of anaplasmosis, associated with altitude of 1701–2000 m, spray baths and paddock rotation. Anaplasmosis is prevalent in Simmental cattle from the Peruvian Amazon, with a higher incidence in Omia and in females, considering May to August the critical months and the altitude less than 2000 meters above sea level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tick-borne diseases account for a large proportion of vector-borne illnesses. They include, for example, a variety of infections caused by bacteria, spirochetes, viruses, rickettsiae, and protozoa. We aim to present a review that demonstrates the connection between the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and the significance of certain emergency tick-borne diseases in humans and their clinical–epidemiological features. This review covers three diseases: anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, and babesiosis. The emergence of ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis is become more frequently diagnosed as the cause of human infections, as animal reservoirs and tick vectors have increased in numbers and humans have inhabited areas where reservoir and tick populations are high. They belong to the order Rickettsiales and the family Anaplasmataceae, and the clinical manifestations typically coexist. Furthermore, prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are critical to the patient's recovery. Similar to malaria, babesiosis causes hemolysis. It is spread by intraerythrocytic protozoa, and the parasitemia dictates how severe it can get. Left untreated, some patients might have a fatal outcome. The correct diagnosis can be difficult sometimes; that is why an in-depth knowledge of the diseases is required. Prevention, prompt diagnosis, and treatment of these tick-borne diseases depend on the understanding of their clinical, epidemiological, and laboratory features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to monitor the occurrence of selected vector-borne diseases in anaemic dogs arriving in or returning to Poland from areas endemic for these diseases. The study involved 497 dogs, of which 184 came to Poland from Ukraine with their owners fleeing the war. Other animals returned to the country from holidays spent in Croatia (n = 96), Turkey (n = 79), Italy (n = 48), Bulgaria (n = 42), Albania (n = 36) and Romania (n = 12). Molecular biology methods were used for detection of pathogens transmitted by the vectors. Molecular tests revealed the presence of vector-borne pathogens in 79 dogs. The most commonly diagnosed infection was caused by Babesia canis (27 dogs), followed by infections with Anaplasma phagocytophilum (in 20 dogs), Mycoplasma haemocanis (15 dogs), Bartonella henselae (7 dogs), Ehrlichia canis (4 dogs), Hepatozoon canis (3 dogs), Babesia gibsoni (2 dogs) and Leishmania infantum (1 dog). Most of the sick dogs (n = 39) came from Ukraine. In dogs spending holidays with their owners outside Poland, vector-borne diseases were most often detected after their return from Turkey (n = 16), and next in descending order from Croatia (n = 7), Italy (n = 6), Albania (n = 4), Bulgaria (n = 4) and Romania (n = 3). The wider migration crisis and increasingly frequent trips of owners with their dogs to areas of endemic infectious and parasitic diseases observed in recent years are the main risk factors for the occurrence of these diseases in Poland. Therefore, constant monitoring of vector-borne diseases, especially in dogs returning from holidays and arriving in Poland from abroad, seems to be crucial for their early detection and introduction of appropriate therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Equine granulocytic anaplasmosis (EGA) is a tick-borne disease affecting horses worldwide, caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum. The disease ranges from non-specific clinical signs to fatal outcomes. A large number of horses has been tested for serological and molecular surveys concerning EGA, but the number of clinical EGA reports is smaller and mostly as single or case series reports. Therefore, the aim of this paper was to analyze reported cases regarding clinico-pathology, diagnosis, and therapeutic management in equids that developed clinical signs of EGA and were confirmed to be infected with A. phagocytophilum. The variety of clinical and pathological findings and the challenging therapeutic approaches registered strongly suggest that EGA should be included in the differential diagnosis when fever occurs. In addition, the findings emphasize the importance of monitoring EGA to initiate proper medication in order to avoid complications. Equine granulocytic anaplasmosis (EGA) is a tick-borne disease affecting horses worldwide, caused by Anaplasma phagocytophilum. The disease ranges from non-specific clinical signs to fatal outcomes. This paper aimed to analyze EGA cases reported in peer-reviewed journals, particularly on clinico-pathological findings, diagnosis, and therapeutic management. Overall, 189 clinical cases from 31 publications were included in the study. Extensive symptomatology for the EGA cases was reported, of which mostly was fever (90.30%), followed by limb edema (48.51%), anorexia (41.79%), depression (32.84%), icterus (22.39%), ataxia (17.91), tachycardia (16.42%), and lethargy (15.67%). Laboratory tests revealed thrombocytopenia (90.32%), anemia (75%), decreased hematocrit (70.59%), leukopenia (55.88%), lymphopenia (58.14%), and neutropenia (41.67%) as the most common hematological abnormalities. For a subset of tested animals, hyperbilirubinemia (20/29), hyperfibrinogenemia (13/15), and hyponatremia (10/10) were also reported. The diagnosis was established by microscopic identification of morulae (in 153 cases), and/or PCR (120 cases), isolation (1 case), or serology (56 cases). For treatment, oxytetracycline was used in the majority (52.24%) of EGA cases, but recovery without antibiotherapy (10.34%) was also noted. In conclusion, the variety of clinical and pathological findings and the challenging therapeutic approaches reported suggest that EGA should be included in the differential diagnosis when fever occurs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the prevalence of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia in 494 engorged ticks collected from various animal hosts, including cattle, horses, sheep, chickens, dogs, and cats, in six regions of northern Kyrgyzstan. Ten tick species, belonging to two families and six genera, were identified based on CO1, 16S rRNA, and ITS2 genes: Argas persicus (26.5%), Haemaphysalis punctata (18.0%), Dermacentor spp. (16.0%), Rhipicephalus annulatus (11.8%), R. turanicus (10.9%), D. marginatus (7.7%), Hyalomma scupense (4.5%), Hy. marginatum (3.8%), R. sangineus complex (0.6%), and Ornithodoros lahorensis (0.2%). PCR analysis revealed a 15.0% (74/494) overall infection rate of Anaplasma and Ehrlichia. Anaplasma species were found in six tick species and were identified as A. bovis (n = 44), Anaplasma spp. (n = 20), A. ovis (n = 5), and A. capra (n = 2). Ehrlichia species were found only in H. punctata (n = 5) and identified as E. chaffeensis (n = 1) and Ehrlichia spp. (n = 4). Additionally, two H. punctata were co-infected with Anaplasma and Ehrlichia. This is the first study to investigate tick-borne bacterial pathogens in ticks collected from animal hosts in Kyrgyzstan. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the epidemiology and emergence of tick-borne infections in Kyrgyzstan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small ruminant anaplasmosis is a blood-parasitic disease that can cause reproductive and economic problems, especially in Ettawa crossbred. In Indonesia, especially in Central Java Province, the study of this pathogen is still limited. This study examines subclinical anaplasmosis in Ettawa crossbred goats from central Java, Indonesia. Twenty adult goats underwent comprehensive physical and laboratory examinations. The physical exams assessed factors like sex, body temperature, heart rate, respiration, and rumen function. Laboratory testing involved blood smears to detect Anaplasmaspecies and complete blood counts using a hematology analyzer. The results showed that 8 goats were positive for Anaplasma, with 2 samples resembling A. phagocytophilum and 6 resembling A. marginale. Females were more likely to be infected. Infected goats did not exhibit significant changes in vital signs compared to healthy goats. However, infected goats had lower red blood cell counts, hemoglobin, and hematocrit, as well as higher white blood cell counts, indicating subclinical anemia. This is the first study to demonstrate the impact of subclinical Anaplasma infection on Ettawa crossbred goats in this region, highlighting the potential for production losses from this overlooked disease.

Tick-borne diseases account for a large proportion of vector-borne illnesses. They include, for example, a variety of infections caused by bacteria, spirochetes, viruses, rickettsiae, and protozoa. We aim to present a review that demonstrates the connection between the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and the significance of certain emergency tick-borne diseases in humans and their clinical–epidemiological features. This review covers three diseases: anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, and babesiosis. The emergence of ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis is become more frequently diagnosed as the cause of human infections, as animal reservoirs and tick vectors have increased in numbers and humans have inhabited areas where reservoir and tick populations are high. They belong to the order Rickettsiales and the family Anaplasmataceae, and the clinical manifestations typically coexist. Furthermore, prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are critical to the patient’s recovery. Similar to malaria, babesiosis causes hemolysis. It is spread by intraerythrocytic protozoa, and the parasitemia dictates how severe it can get. Left untreated, some patients might have a fatal outcome. The correct diagnosis can be difficult sometimes; that is why an in-depth knowledge of the diseases is required. Prevention, prompt diagnosis, and treatment of these tick-borne diseases depend on the understanding of their clinical, epidemiological, and laboratory features.

Ixodes ricinus ticks are an important vector and reservoir of pathogenic microorganisms causing dangerous infectious diseases in humans and animals. The presence of ticks in urban greenery is a particularly important public health concern due to the potential for humans and companion animals to be exposed to tick-borne diseases there. The study assessed the prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi and Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection in I. ricinus ticks feeding on dogs.

Abstract Background In 2022, fluralaner was launched on the market for use in the control of the cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus after showing 100% efficacy in registration trials against the causative agents of cattle tick fever (TFAs). The aim of the present study was to determine whether a strategic control regimen against R. microplus using fluralaner (FLU) in Holstein calves grazing in a tropical region would alter the enzootic stability status of cattle tick fever, triggering outbreaks in these animals up to 22 months age. Methods In this study, a group of calves treated with FLU was compared with a control group treated with the regimen currently being used on the farm, which consisted of the fipronil + fluazuron formulation (FIFLUA). In the first experiment, the efficacy of the FIFLUA pour-on formulation was evaluated in a field study. In the second experiment, which lasted 550 days, two experimental groups (n = 30/group) of Holstein calves naturally infested with R. microplus were analyzed. Calves aged 4 to 10 months received either a specific treatment regimen with FLU (experimental group) or FIFLUA (control group). During this period, tick counts, animal weight measurement, feces collection (to determine eggs and oocysts per gram of feces), tick fever monitoring, blood smears (to ascertain enzootic stability of the herd), PCR testing for TFAs and serology (indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [iELISA]) were performed. All calves were evaluated for signs of tick fever between ages 11 and 22 months. Results FIFLUA showed an acaricidal efficacy of > 90% from post-treatment days 14 to 35. Regarding treatments against the TFAs, the average number of treatments was similar between groups, but animals treated with FLU had a smaller reduction in packed cell volume on some of the evaluation dates of the second and third treatment against TFAs. In calves aged 10 months in the FLU group, B. bovis was not detected by PCR (0/15 samples), 40% of the samples had antibody titers and 33% (10/30) of the samples had positive blood smears. Regarding B. bigemina, > 86% of the samples in both groups tested positive for B. bigemina DNA and antibodies; there was no difference in the antibody titers between the groups. There were no clinical cases of cattle tick fever in calves aged 11 to 22 months. Conclusions In comparison with the control treatment, the strategic control regimen against R. microplus with FLU that was implemented in the present study did not negatively affect the enzootic stability status of A. marginale and B. bigemina in the herd up to 22 months of age. The enzootic stability status of B. bovis was not reached by either group. These results likely represent a characteristic of the local tick population, so further studies should be performed. Graphical Abstract

Bovine anaplasmosis is endemic and is of fundamental importance worldwide. Therefore, measures for controlling and preventing clinical diseases are warranted to ensure the reduction of associated economic losses. The objective of the present study was to assess the post-inoculation effects and protection conferred by three different protocols of inoculation of low-virulence live strains of Anaplasma marginale (UFMG1 and UFMG3) in field-challenged cattle. Sixty-eight Holstein calves with an average age of 17 days were randomly divided into four groups. The groups received two subcutaneous administrations spaced 40 days apart, at a dosage of 2 × 106 infected erythrocytes of the following A. marginale strains: G1 (UFMG1 + UFMG1); G2 (UFMG3 + UFMG3); G3 (UFMG1 + UFMG3); and G4 (control). Every two days, the animals were evaluated for rectal temperature, Packed Cell Volume (PCV), and blood smears. Blood samples were collected prior to inoculation, before the field challenge, and after the challenge period, nPCR and IFAT techniques were performed. There were no significant differences in rickettsemia levels, reduction in PCV, or antibody detection among the different inoculation strategies. Forty days after the second inoculation, 90 %, 84.6 %, and 90.9 % of the animals in G1, G2, and G3, respectively, tested positive using nPCR. After inoculation, the group G2, which received the UFMG3 inoculum, had a higher frequency of treatment (odds ratio of 6.7; 1.198-38.018 CI; p = 0.03), while groups G1 and G3 demonstrated similar treatment frequencies compared to the control. During the natural challenge phase, 13.3 % of animals in group G1 required treatment (odds ratio of 0.108; 0.018-0.635 CI; p = 0.014) compared to 58.8 % of the control group. Considering the results collectively, the protocol using the UFMG1 strain (G1) stands out for its potential to be safe and induce some degree of immunization against A. marginale, reducing the incidence of clinical disease and the need for treatment during natural challenge.

Tick-borne bacteria of the genera Ehrlichia and Anaplasma cause several emerging human infectious diseases worldwide. In this study, we conduct an extensive survey for Ehrlichia and Anaplasma infections in the rainforests of the Amazon biome of French Guiana. Through molecular genetics and metagenomics reconstruction, we observe a high indigenous biodiversity of infections circulating among humans, wildlife, and ticks inhabiting these ecosystems. Molecular typing identifies these infections as highly endemic, with a majority of new strains and putative species specific to French Guiana. They are detected in unusual rainforest wild animals, suggesting they have distinctive sylvatic transmission cycles. They also present potential health hazards, as revealed by the detection of Candidatus Anaplasma sparouinense in human red blood cells and that of a new close relative of the human pathogen Ehrlichia ewingii, Candidatus Ehrlichia cajennense, in the tick species that most frequently bite humans in South America. The genome assembly of three new putative species obtained from human, sloth, and tick metagenomes further reveals the presence of major homologs of Ehrlichia and Anaplasma virulence factors. These observations converge to classify health hazards associated with Ehrlichia and Anaplasma infections in the Amazon biome as distinct from those in the Northern Hemisphere. In this study, the authors detect diverse Ehrlichia and Anaplasma bacteria in samples from Amazonian wildlife, humans and ticks that are mostly distinct from pathogens detected in the Northern Hemisphere and that might indicate emerging health hazards from tick-borne diseases in the Amazon rainforests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 4-year-old female Golden Retriever presented to the Veterinary Clinical Complex of the College revealed the clinico-pathological findings such as fever, tachycardia, tachypnea, pale mucous membranes, dehydration, haemorrhage, hind limb pain; anaemia, leukocytosis, lymphocytosis, monocytopenia, eosinopenia; elevated ALT, ALP, total bilirubin, indirect bilirubin, BUN, and CRP; with proteinuria, bilirubinuria, and haematuria. The oxidative stress indices revealed decreased TAOA and SOD, and increased LPO levels. Blood smear examination revealed the presence of intracytoplasmatic inclusions in neutrophils associated with high positive serology for Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Species-specific PCR analysis confirmed serological diagnosis of A. phagocytophilum. Data indicates that A. phagocytophilum circulates in natural environments of the northeast region of India and its prevalence in dogs could be underestimated because the clinical signs are frequently nonspecific and a certain diagnosis requires the combination of clinicopathological and molecular assays. Pets living in this area should be regularly monitored and treated for ectoparasites to minimize health risks for humans and pets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: No tick‐borne pathogens (TBPs) causing haemolytic anaemia in cattle have been reported, except Theileria orientalis and complete blood count (CBC) profile is the only haematological parameter to determine the severity of regenerative haemolytic anaemia. Objectives: To identify the causative agents of TBP‐induced haemolytic anaemia and determine haematological parameters that indicate haemolytic anaemia in grazing cattle. Methods: Eighty‐two Korean indigenous cattle (Hanwoo) were divided into two groups: grazing (n = 67) and indoor (n = 15) groups. CBC and serum biochemistry were performed. PCR was conducted using whole blood‐extracted DNA to investigate the prevalence of TBPs. Results: TBP‐induced haemolytic anaemia was observed in the grazing group. In grazing cattle, co‐infection (43.3%, 29/67) was most frequently detected, followed by T. orientalis (37.6%, 25/67) and Anaplasma phagocytophilum infections (1.5%, 1/67). In indoor cattle, only co‐infection (20%, 3/15) was identified. Grazing cattle exhibited regenerative haemolytic anaemia with marked monocytosis, mild neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia. According to grazing frequency, the 1st‐time grazing group had more severe anaemia than the 2nd‐time grazing group. Elevations in indirect bilirubin and L‐lactate due to haemolytic anaemia were identified, and correlations with the respective markers were determined in co‐infected grazing cattle. Conclusions: Quantitative evaluation of haematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, and reticulocytes (markers of regenerative haemolytic anaemia in cattle) was performed for the first time. Our results show that, in addition to T. orientalis, A. phagocytophilum is strongly associated with anaemia. The correlation between haemolytic anaemia severity and haematological parameters (indirect bilirubin, reticulocytes, and L‐lactate) was confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ehrlichia and Anaplasma are obligate intracellular, gram-negative bacteria with tropism for hematopoietic cells, especially leukocytes and platelets. There are several Ehrlichia species that infect dogs. Ehrlichia canis is transmitted by Rhipicephalus sanguineus and replicates within monocytes and macrophages, leading to canine monocytic ehrlichiosis, a disease of worldwide distribution. The clinical signs are varied and non-specific. Anaplasma has two species that infect dogs, Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Anaplasma platys, the second also transmitted by Rhipicephalus sanguineus. This study aimed to evaluate the epidemiology and hematologic changes associated with the presence of Ehrlichia spp. and Anaplasma spp. coinfection in dogs from Baja California. Complete hematological analysis, examination of buffy coat smears, and ELISA tests were performed on blood samples from three veterinary diagnostic laboratories from Mexicali and Tijuana cities in Baja California, Mexico. A total of 5,469 dog samples were analyzed. The overall prevalence of Ehrlichia spp., was 4.79%, with a distribution of 6.3% in Mexicali (OR: 2.39 CI: 1.69-3.17) and 2.5% in Tijuana. The peak of infection was found in September. Contact with other dogs and tick infestation were the risk factors associated with infection (P < 0.05). There was 96% co-infection only in Tijuana and 0% in Mexicali. Anemia, thrombocytopenia, and hyperproteinemia are associated with Ehrlichia spp., and Ehrlichia/Anaplasma infection. In view of the foregoing, we have to maintain epidemiologic vigilance, as well as look further into the ticks present in the state and the possibility of transmission of unusual pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tick-borne pathogen (TBP) surveillance studies often use wholetick homogenates when inferring tick-pathogen associations. However, localized TBP infections within tick tissues (saliva, hemolymph, salivary glands, and midgut) can inform pathogen transmission mechanisms and are key to disentangling pathogen detection from vector competence. Methods: We screened 278 camel blood samples and 504 tick tissue samples derived from 126 camel ticks sampled in two Kenyan counties (Laikipia and Marsabit) for Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, Coxiella, Rickettsia, Theileria, and Babesia by PCR-HRM analysis. Results: Candidatus Anaplasma camelii infections were common in camels (91%), but absent in all samples from Rhipicephalus pulchellus, Amblyomma gemma, Hyalomma dromedarii, and Hyalomma rufipes ticks. We detected Ehrlichia ruminantium in all tissues of the four tick species, but Rickettsia aeschlimannii was only found in Hy. rufipes (all tissues). Rickettsia africae was highest in Am. gemma (62.5%), mainly in the hemolymph (45%) and less frequently in the midgut (27.5%) and lowest in Rh. pulchellus (29.4%), where midgut and hemolymph detection rates were 17.6% and 11.8%, respectively. Similarly, in Hy. dromedarii, R. africae was mainly detected in the midgut (41.7%) but was absent in the hemolymph. Rickettsia africae was not detected in Hy. rufipes. No Coxiella, Theileria, or Babesia spp. were detected in this study. Conclusions: The tissue-specific localization of R. africae, found mainly in the hemolymph of Am. gemma, is congruent with the role of this tick species as its transmission vector. Thus, occurrence of TBPs in the hemolymph could serve as a predictor of vector competence of TBP transmission, especially in comparison to detection rates in the midgut, from which they must cross tissue barriers to effectively replicate and disseminate across tick tissues. Further studies should focus on exploring the distribution of TBPs within tick tissues to enhance knowledge of TBP epidemiology and to distinguish competent vectors from dead-end hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate seven outbreaks of A. marginale infection in two regions of Brazil, affecting taurine, zebu, and crossbred cattle. We assessed the possible causes, treatment measures, and genetic diversity of A. marginale. These outbreaks occurred in two states (Goiás: outbreaks 1–7; Mato Grosso do Sul: outbreak 3), breeds (Holstein, Nellore, and crossbreed), age groups (beef cattle: 18–25 days old and 7–8 months; dairy cattle: 18–25 days old, 13–14 months, and cow after the first birth) and rearing systems (feedlot, pasture, pen in a wood shaving bedding system and compost bedded-pack barns). Metaphylactic or prophylactic treatments varied according to outbreak (imidocarb dipropionate: outbreaks 1–4 and 6; enrofloxacin: outbreaks 5 and 7; diminazene diaceturate: outbreak 5). In outbreaks 6 and 7, the packed cell volume was monitored. In all outbreaks, the practice of needle/syringe sharing was discontinued. For outbreaks 1–3, clinical signs and mortality (range, 4.8–13.3%) occurred 36–45 days after entry into the feedlot. In outbreak 4, A. marginale was diagnosed in 66.2% of the calves (bacteremia, 0-4.5%), with a mortality of 8.6%. Among nursing calves aged 60 days during outbreak 5, 53.8% were infected with A. marginale, with average bacteremia of 2.7% (range, 0-21.3%), and a mortality of 13.8%. In dairy heifers aged 14 months, raised in paddocks lacking vegetation cover and infested with R. microplus, then transitioned to a rotational grazing system also infested with R. microplus, the A. marginale bacteremia ranged from 3.2 to 6.7%, with a mortality of 20%. Before monitoring during outbreak 7, the mortality was 17.9%, but no further deaths were observed after monitoring initiation. In conclusion, possible causes triggering the outbreaks included primary tick infestation, needle/syringe sharing, and stress factors which may have affected the immunological statues of animals in the feedlots. Control measures performed in all outbreaks were effective. The partial msp4 gene sequences of A. marginale generated herein belonged to two haplotypes, but further research would be needed to investigate if this finding has any clinical significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Emerging tick-transmitted illnesses are increasingly recognized in the United States (US). To identify multiple potential tick-borne pathogens in patients from the Upper Midwest and Northeast US with suspected anaplasmosis, we used state-of-the-art methods (polymerase chain reaction [PCR] and paired serology) to test samples from patients in whom anaplasmosis had been excluded. Methods Five hundred sixty-eight patients without anaplasmosis had optimal samples available for confirmation of alternative tick-borne pathogens, including PCR and/or paired serology (acute-convalescent interval ≤42 days). Results Among 266 paired serology evaluations, for which the median acute-convalescent sampling interval was 28 (interquartile range, 21–33) days, we identified 35 acute/recent infections (24 [9%] Borrelia burgdorferi ; 6 [2%] Ehrlichia chaffeensis/Ehrlichia muris subsp eauclairensis [ EC/EME ]; 3 [1%] spotted fever group rickettsioses [SFGR], and 2 [<1%] Babesia microti) in 33 (12%) patients. Two had concurrent or closely sequential infections (1 B burgdorferi and EC/EME , and 1 B burgdorferi and SFGR). Using multiplex PCR and reverse-transcription PCR, we identified 7 acute infections (5/334 [1%] Borrelia miyamotoi and 2/334 [1%] B microti) in 5 (1%) patients, including 2 with B microti – B miyamotoi coinfection, but no Borrelia mayonii , SFGR, Candidatus Anaplasma capra, Heartland virus, or Powassan virus infections. Thus, among 568 patients with ruled-out anaplasmosis, 38 (6.7%) had ≥1 agent of tick-borne illness identified, with 33 patients (35 infections) diagnosed by paired serology and 5 additional patients (7 infections) by PCR. Conclusions By identifying other tick-borne agents in patients in whom anaplasmosis had been excluded, we demonstrate that emerging tick-borne infections will be identified if specifically sought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In 2022, fluralaner was launched on the market for use in the control of the cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus after showing 100% efficacy in registration trials against the causative agents of cattle tick fever (TFAs). The aim of the present study was to determine whether a strategic control regimen against R. microplus using fluralaner (FLU) in Holstein calves grazing in a tropical region would alter the enzootic stability status of cattle tick fever, triggering outbreaks in these animals up to 22 months age. Methods: In this study, a group of calves treated with FLU was compared with a control group treated with the regimen currently being used on the farm, which consisted of the fipronil + fluazuron formulation (FIFLUA). In the first experiment, the efficacy of the FIFLUA pour-on formulation was evaluated in a field study. In the second experiment, which lasted 550 days, two experimental groups (n = 30/group) of Holstein calves naturally infested with R. microplus were analyzed. Calves aged 4 to 10 months received either a specific treatment regimen with FLU (experimental group) or FIFLUA (control group). During this period, tick counts, animal weight measurement, feces collection (to determine eggs and oocysts per gram of feces), tick fever monitoring, blood smears (to ascertain enzootic stability of the herd), PCR testing for TFAs and serology (indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [iELISA]) were performed. All calves were evaluated for signs of tick fever between ages 11 and 22 months. Results: FIFLUA showed an acaricidal efficacy of > 90% from post-treatment days 14 to 35. Regarding treatments against the TFAs, the average number of treatments was similar between groups, but animals treated with FLU had a smaller reduction in packed cell volume on some of the evaluation dates of the second and third treatment against TFAs. In calves aged 10 months in the FLU group, B. bovis was not detected by PCR (0/15 samples), 40% of the samples had antibody titers and 33% (10/30) of the samples had positive blood smears. Regarding B. bigemina, > 86% of the samples in both groups tested positive for B. bigemina DNA and antibodies; there was no difference in the antibody titers between the groups. There were no clinical cases of cattle tick fever in calves aged 11 to 22 months. Conclusions: In comparison with the control treatment, the strategic control regimen against R. microplus with FLU that was implemented in the present study did not negatively affect the enzootic stability status of A. marginale and B. bigemina in the herd up to 22 months of age. The enzootic stability status of B. bovis was not reached by either group. These results likely represent a characteristic of the local tick population, so further studies should be performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anaplasma ovis (A. ovis) is the predominant causative agent of anaplasmosis in goats and sheep in most tropical and subtropical regions of the world. However, there is considerable variation in reported infection rates, breed susceptibility, and controversial findings regarding the haemolytic effects of A. ovis infection in goats. Objectives: Thus, we investigated the molecular and haematological aspects of A. ovis infection in goats from Ahvaz city. Methods: One hundred and fifty apparently healthy goats (74 blacks and 76 Najdi goats) were randomly sampled from six flocks in the Ahvaz suburb during ticks' activity season. Haematological evaluation, smear microscopic (SM) examination and PCR assay were performed to assess A. ovis infection. Additionally, the percentage of parasitemia was determined from blood smears. Results: SM examination revealed that 25.7% of the goats displayed erythrocyte Anaplasma‐like inclusion bodies. PCR analysis indicated that 54% of the goats were positive for A. ovis infection (44.6% of blacks and 63.2% of Najdi goats). No significant difference in haematological values was observed between healthy and infected goats based on PCR testing. However, a significant difference in haematological indices was observed between the group with parasitemia level of 0.01–0.02% (SM and PCR positive) compared to the healthy goats (SM and PCR negative), particularly concerning Hb, PCV and RBC count (p < 0.01). Conclusions: When the parasitemia exceeds 0.01%, A. ovis infection may disrupt haematological parameters in infected goats. The high prevalence of A. ovis infection (54%) among the studied goats underscores the importance of giving special attention to implementing necessary measures for disease control in the Ahvaz suburb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Camel anaplasmosis is a recent emerging disease with potential zoonotic concerns. There is poor understanding of the epidemiology of anaplasmosis in camels and, in particular of Candidatus Anaplasma camelii, which is detected in several countries including Saudi Arabia, Iran, Kenya, and Morocco. Most studies of anaplasmosis in camels relied on microscopy and serology for diagnosis, and few used molecular approaches. The present work characterizes Anaplasmataceae strains circulating in the Camelus dromedarius reservoir in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) using PCR, sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis for the first time to provide information about the largely neglected disease they cause. Between 2019 to 2023, thirty-five whole-blood samples (35/287 = 12.2%) tested positive for Anaplasmataceae spp. by PCR assay targeting the groEL gene. Of these, only nine positive samples (9/35 = 25.7%) were sequenced using groEL gene primers. A GenBank BLAST analysis revealed that all strains were 100% identical to the Candidatus Anaplasma camelii reference sequence available in the GenBank nucleotide database. The recent emergence of anaplasmosis in camels has raised global interest in the pathogenicity and zoonotic potential of the pathogen causing it and the role of camels as reservoir hosts. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), molecular studies and genetic characterization of camel-associated Anaplasma species are limited. This study aimed to characterize molecularly Anaplasmataceae strains circulating in dromedary camels in the UAE. Two hundred eighty-seven whole-blood samples collected from dromedary camels across regions of the Abu Dhabi Emirate were received between 2019 and 2023 at the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) veterinary laboratories for routine diagnosis of anaplasmosis. The animals were sampled based on field clinical observation by veterinarians and their tentative suspicion of blood parasite infection on the basis of similar clinical symptoms as those caused by blood parasites in ruminants. The samples were screened for Anaplasmataceae by PCR assay targeting the groEL gene. Anaplasmataceae strains were further characterized by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the groEL gene. Thirty-five samples (35/287 = 12.2%) tested positive for Anaplasmataceae spp. by PCR assay. Nine positive samples (9/35 = 25.7%) were sequenced using groEL gene primers. GenBank BLAST analysis revealed that all strains were 100% identical to the Candidatus A. camelii reference sequence available in the GenBank nucleotide database. Phylogenetic analysis further indicated that the sequences were close to each other and were located in one cluster with Candidatus A. camelii sequences detected in Saudi Arabia, Morocco, and the UAE. Pairwise alignment showed that the UAE sequences detected in this study were completely identical and shared 100% identity with Candidatus A. camelii from Morocco and Saudi Arabia and 99.5% identity with Candidatus A. camelii from the UAE. This study demonstrates the presence of Candidatus A. camelii in UAE dromedary camels. Further critical investigation of the clinical and economical significance of this pathogen in camels needs to be carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Piroplasmosis and anaplasmosis stand out as the primary diseases affecting livestock during periods of tick activity. These vector-borne diseases continue to emerge worldwide, exerting a detrimental impact on both animal health and national economies. The purpose of this study is to assess the prevalence of Piroplasma spp. and its co-occurrence with Anaplasma marginale in domestic ruminants in Algeria. Methods: Three databases were systematically reviewed to identify eligible studies for the final meta-analysis, following the PRISMA statement. The 'meta' package in the R software was employed for the meta-analysis with the random effects model chosen for data pooling. Results: The meta-analysis encompasses 14 research papers spanning a 19-year period (2004–2023). Theileria spp. was identified in all studies, covering 1675 cattle, 190 sheep, and 128 goats, yielding an overall Theileria infection rate of 45% (95% CI 26–65%). Specifically, cattle had a 59% infection rate, while sheep and goats had rates of 18% and 20%, respectively. Babesia spp. was found in nine studies, involving 1183 cattle and 190 sheep, resulting in an overall Babesia infection rate of 7% (95% CI 4–15%), with cattle and sheep having rates of 10% and 3%, respectively. Notably, eight Piroplasma species T. annulata, T. orientalis, T. buffeli, T. equi, Theileria sp., B. bovis, B. bigemina, and B. occultans were detected in cattle, with T. annulata being the most prevalent at 54%. Regional disparities and host factors also impacted infection rates, with higher rates in Northeastern Algeria and among suspected disease cattle. Additionally, gender, age, and breed influenced cattle susceptibility to Theileria infection. Furthermore, six distinct co-infections between Piroplasma spp. and A. marginale were observed, with T. annulata/A. marginale identified in six studies, demonstrating an 8.3% co-infection rate. Conclusion: This analysis offers crucial insights into the current status of Piroplasmosis and its co-infection with A. marginale in Algerian domestic ruminants, providing valuable data for surveillance and prevention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Este estudio evalúa la cantidad de casos reportados de anaplasmosis y ehrlichiosis canina en el distrito del Rímac, Lima, Perú, así como su asociación con factores implicados en la presentación de estas enfermedades. En estos casos es común la presencia de anemia y trombocitopenia, los cuales afectan los parámetros hematológicos normales. Se muestreó todas las historias clínicas del periodo 2018-2021 de pacientes caninos de la Clínica Veterinaria Municipal del Rímac ubicado en el distrito del Rímac, Lima – Perú. Se usó la prueba estadística de Ji cuadrada y el coeficiente de contingencia para determinar asociación. Todas las variables fueron analizadas también mediante regresión binomial logística. Se usó un nivel de significancia de 0.05. En 4.308 % (224/5,200) de historias clínicas se diagnosticó Ehrlichia canis y Anaplasma spp. Se usó la prueba de Ji cuadrada para evaluar asociación con los factores sexo, raza, edad, y estación del año, concluyendo que hubo asociación de las enfermedades con el grupo etario; y a un intervalo de confianza al 95 % se observó que la frecuencia de casos de E. canis y Anaplasma spp. fue de 95.98 % y 1.79 %, respectivamente, y la co-infección de ambos patógenos fue de 2.23 %. En el modelo de regresión logística se incluyeron los efectos de peso vivo y sexo sobre el diagnostico de ehrlichiosis y anaplasmosis los cuales resultaron significativos. Hubo asociación significativa entre el diagnóstico de ehrlichiosis y anaplasmosis canina con la edad y peso, pero no hubo efecto con raza, y estación del año.

Abstract Background Changing geographical and seasonal activity patterns of ticks may increase the risk of tick infestation and tick-borne pathogen (TBP) transmission for both humans and animals. Methods To estimate TBP exposure of dogs and cats, 3000 female I. ricinus from these hosts were investigated for Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Borrelia species. Results qPCR inhibition, which was observed for ticks of all engorgement stages but not questing ticks, was eliminated at a template volume of 2 µl. In ticks from dogs, A. phagocytophilum and Borrelia spp. prevalence amounted to 19.0% (285/1500) and 28.5% (427/1500), respectively, while ticks from cats showed significantly higher values of 30.9% (464/1500) and 55.1% (827/1500). Accordingly, the coinfection rate with both A. phagocytophilum and Borrelia spp. was significantly higher in ticks from cats (17.5%, 262/1500) than dogs (6.9%, 104/1500). Borrelia prevalence significantly decreased with increasing engorgement duration in ticks from both host species, whereas A. phagocytophilum prevalence decreased only in ticks from dogs. While A. phagocytophilum copy numbers in positive ticks did not change significantly over the time of engorgement, those of Borrelia decreased initially in dog ticks. In ticks from cats, copy numbers of neither A. phagocytophilum nor Borrelia spp. were affected by engorgement. Borrelia species differentiation was successful in 29.1% (365/1254) of qPCR-positive ticks. The most frequently detected species in ticks from dogs were B. afzelii (39.3% of successfully differentiated infections; 70/178), B. miyamotoi (16.3%; 29/178), and B. valaisiana (15.7%; 28/178), while B. afzelii (40.1%; 91/227), B. spielmanii (21.6%; 49/227), and B. miyamotoi (14.1%; 32/227) occurred most frequently in ticks from cats. Conclusions The differences in pathogen prevalence and Borrelia species distribution between ticks collected from dogs and cats may result from differences in habitat overlap with TBP reservoir hosts. The declining prevalence of A. phagocytophilum with increasing engorgement duration, without a decrease in copy numbers, could indicate transmission to dogs over the time of attachment. The fact that this was not observed in ticks from cats may indicate less efficient transmission. In conclusion, the high prevalence of A. phagocytophilum and Borrelia spp. in ticks collected from dogs and cats underlines the need for effective acaricide tick control to protect both animals and humans from associated health risks. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Background Comprehensive descriptions of equids with granulocytic anaplasmosis (EGA) with neurologic or muscle disease and other atypical presentations are scarce in the literature. Objective Describe the clinical signs, laboratory findings, treatment, and outcome of equids with EGA with emphasis on neurologic and muscle disease. Animals Thirty‐eight horses, 1 donkey. Methods Retrospective study. Equids with EGA were included. The electronic data base was searched from January 2000 to December 2022 using the words anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, granulocytic, and rickettsia. Signalment and clinical data were reviewed. Data were evaluated for normality using Shapiro‐Wilk test. Parametric and nonparametric statistics were used for normally and non‐normally distributed data. Results Common (41%) and other (59%) presentations were seen in horses ≥ 4 years of age (median, 14 years) with an overrepresentation of males (77%). Neurologic disease was common (41%), mainly presenting as diffuse symmetrical proprioceptive ataxia. Brain disease was less common manifesting as obtundation and cranial nerve deficits. Muscle disease was less common, with QH breeds with the variant causing myosin heavy chain myopathy (MYHM) having severe disease. Cavitary effusion, cardiomyopathy and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) were uncommon. Clinical laboratory results varied depending on disease stage. Muscle enzyme activities were significantly higher in horses with muscle disease. Outcome was favorable with prompt tetracycline treatment. Death and long‐term sequelae were not reported. Conclusions and Clinical Importance Common and atypical presentations of EGA have a favorable outcome with prompt tetracycline treatment. Quarter horse breeds with muscle disease should be genotyped for MYHM.

The purpose of the research is to establish the prevalence of vector-borne diseases in reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) Bolshezemelskaya and Malozemelskaya tundra.Materials and methods. The research was carried out in 2022–2023 on domesticated reindeer living in the Bolshezemelskaya and Malozemelskaya tundra of the Nenets Autonomous Okrug and the Komi Republic. Stabilized blood was obtained from animals by random sampling and PCR studies were performed for the presence of genetic material of pathogens of the genera Anaplasma, Babesia and Theileria.Results and discussion. The DNA of the causative agent of anaplasmosis was isolated from 14.3% of reindeer from Malozemelskaya (family-tribal community «Vy Tu» (VTU) and «Opseda» (OPS)) and 30.6% of Bolshezemelskaya tundra (Аgricultural production cooperative «Harp» (HARP) and Collective Farm «Izhemsky olenevod and Co» (IZHM)). To a greater extent, vazhenki and calves were infected with anaplasmosis, to a lesser extent – choirs. Genetic material of Babesia pathogens was found in 53.1% of VTU and OPS deer and 36.7% of HARP and IZHM, while babesiosis was most often observed in the chorus group. Teileriosis was found in 10.2% and 4.1% of animal samples among the herds of the Malozemelskaya and Bolshezemelskaya tundra, respectively. The genetic material of the causative agent of teileriosis was isolated mainly from the blood obtained from calves. The causative agent of theileriosis was not found in the biological material of the choirs. The presence of DNA Anaplasma spp. and Babesia spp. in one sample, the proportion of deer from Malozemelskaya tundra herds was 2.4%, from Bolshezemelskaya – 26.5%. The combined course of babesiosis and teileriosis was found to be 8.2% only in VTU and OPS deer. Thus, studies have shown that vector-borne diseases is widespread among the reindeer of the studied farms of the Bolshezemelskaya and Malozemelskaya tundra.

Background: Changing geographical and seasonal activity patterns of ticks may increase the risk of tick infestation and tick-borne pathogen (TBP) transmission for both humans and animals. Methods: To estimate TBP exposure of dogs and cats, 3000 female I. ricinus from these hosts were investigated for Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Borrelia species. Results: qPCR inhibition, which was observed for ticks of all engorgement stages but not questing ticks, was eliminated at a template volume of 2 µl. In ticks from dogs, A. phagocytophilum and Borrelia spp. prevalence amounted to 19.0% (285/1500) and 28.5% (427/1500), respectively, while ticks from cats showed significantly higher values of 30.9% (464/1500) and 55.1% (827/1500). Accordingly, the coinfection rate with both A. phagocytophilum and Borrelia spp. was significantly higher in ticks from cats (17.5%, 262/1500) than dogs (6.9%, 104/1500). Borrelia prevalence significantly decreased with increasing engorgement duration in ticks from both host species, whereas A. phagocytophilum prevalence decreased only in ticks from dogs. While A. phagocytophilum copy numbers in positive ticks did not change significantly over the time of engorgement, those of Borrelia decreased initially in dog ticks. In ticks from cats, copy numbers of neither A. phagocytophilum nor Borrelia spp. were affected by engorgement. Borrelia species differentiation was successful in 29.1% (365/1254) of qPCR-positive ticks. The most frequently detected species in ticks from dogs were B. afzelii (39.3% of successfully differentiated infections; 70/178), B. miyamotoi (16.3%; 29/178), and B. valaisiana (15.7%; 28/178), while B. afzelii (40.1%; 91/227), B. spielmanii (21.6%; 49/227), and B. miyamotoi (14.1%; 32/227) occurred most frequently in ticks from cats. Conclusions: The differences in pathogen prevalence and Borrelia species distribution between ticks collected from dogs and cats may result from differences in habitat overlap with TBP reservoir hosts. The declining prevalence of A. phagocytophilum with increasing engorgement duration, without a decrease in copy numbers, could indicate transmission to dogs over the time of attachment. The fact that this was not observed in ticks from cats may indicate less efficient transmission. In conclusion, the high prevalence of A. phagocytophilum and Borrelia spp. in ticks collected from dogs and cats underlines the need for effective acaricide tick control to protect both animals and humans from associated health risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simply Summary: Anaplasmosis is a widely spread emerging tick-borne disease, generally transmitted by the Ixodes tick species. Two members of the Anaplasma genus—A. phagocytophilum (infecting neutrophils) and A. platys (infecting platelets)—cause granulocytic anaplasmosis and thrombocytopenia in some animals and humans. Our case report describes granulocytic anaplasmosis in two dogs routinely tested for blood donation. The blood smear was negative for tick-borne pathogens, and the haematology findings indicated thrombocytopenia in both dogs. The dogs were mildly positive in the ELISA tests for the detection of antibodies for Anaplasma spp. The qRT-PCR result was negative for A. platys but positive for A. phagocytophilum. In conclusion, the molecular test is mandatory for confirmation of Anaplasma spp. infection, and we suggest it should be implemented in all blood donors. This study describes granulocytic anaplasmosis in two dogs naturally infected with Anaplasma phagocytophilum. The 3-year-old dogs (male and female) came from the same household and were referred to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in Iasi for blood donation. They were subject to standard routine tests: haematology blood test, blood smear, and serological tests (VETSCAN® FLEX4 and IDEXX SNAP 4Dx Plus). The female dog had no medical problems, while the male dog experienced joint pain. The blood smear was negative for tick-borne pathogens, and the haematology findings indicated thrombocytopenia in both dogs, with the male dog also displaying eosinophilia. The two dogs were mildly positive in the ELISA tests for the detection of Anaplasma spp. antibodies; therefore, the blood samples were tested using the qRT-PCR method for Anaplasma platys and Anaplasma phagocytophilum. The qRT-PCR result was negative for A. platys, but it was positive for A. phagocytophilum. The treatment consisted of the administration of doxycycline for 28 days. In conclusion, the high number of cases with non-specific clinical signs, the different sensitivity and specificity of the immunochromatographic serological tests, as well as the possibility of confusing the morula during the cytological examination, make the molecular test mandatory for precise diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE The objectives of this study were to evaluate the prevalence of chronic Anaplasma marginale infection in beef bulls from eastern Kansas and compare breeding soundness parameters between A marginale-infected and uninfected bulls. We hypothesized that bulls with chronic anaplasmosis would have inferior breeding soundness exam (BSE) outcomes as a result of persistent A margina/e infection or the consequence of initial clinical disease compared to uninfected bulls. ANIMALS 535 client-owned beef bulls from eastern Kansas undergoing routine BSE. METHODS Complete BSEs were conducted by participating veterinarians according to the second edition of the Society for Theriogenology Manual for Breeding Soundness Examination of Bulls . Blood samples were collected for PCV determination and analysis of A marginale infection status via quantitative PCR and cELISA. Logistic and linear regression methods were used to evaluate factors associated with A marginaje infection status and BSE parameters. RESULTS Prevalence of chronic A marginale infection was 46 % (245 / 535) among bulls. Unsatisfactory BSE outcome was not statistically associated with chronic anaplasmosis in this study population, although more bulls with chronic anaplasmosis had unsatisfactory BSE outcomes (15.0 ± 2.4% vs 12.0 ± 2.2%) CLINICAL RELEVANCE Chronic anaplasmosis is prevalent among eastern Kansas breeding bulls; however, no negative association between chronic anaplasmosis and breeding soundness at time of BSE was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]