Abstract

Background:
Canine babesiosis and ehrlichiosis are common diseases that significantly affect the health of infected dogs, particularly in tropical areas.

Aim:
This study aimed to identify the circulating Babesia sp. and Ehrlichia sp. in Egypt and to determine the related risk factors, with a particular focus on the hematobiochemical parameters.

Methods:
A total of 157 blood samples were used for nucleic acid extraction for molecular identification, phylogenetic analysis, evaluating the expression level of tumor necrosis factor-α, (TNF-α) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) by qPCR, respectively. Hematobiochemical parameters were also measured. Animal data were obtained during clinical investigation and used for risk assessment. Multiple clinical signs were recorded with varying degrees of intensity.

Results:
The results cleared the identification of Babesia canis subspecies vogeli. and Ehrlichia canis with a rate of 17.83 %, and 12.73 %, respectively, which was higher than the microscopic examination. The obtained Babesia sp. were uploaded to the National Center for Biotechnology Information under the accession numbers (PQ821446.1, PQ821447.1, PQ821448.1). For Ehrlichia sp., were (PQ821442.1, PQ821443.1, PQ821444.1). IFN-γ, and TNF-α genes were significantly expressed in the infected cases compared with the healthy ones. The presence of stray dogs and external ticks were the most significant associated risk factors. Hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, lymphocytosis, and hyperbilirubinemia are the principal hemato-biochemical alterations.

Conclusion:
Babesia canis subspecies vogeli. and Ehrlichia canis are the most common circulating types accompanied with hyperexpression of IFN-γ, and TNF-α genes, hemolytic anemia, and external parasitic infestation. This study not only highlighted the prevalence of canine haematogones, related signs, and risk factors but also recommended the application of effective control strategies, especially for stray dogs.

Key words: Babesiosis; Ehrlichiosis; Prevalence; Risk factors; Hematobiochemical parameters.