Hematological and biochemical determinants of anemic syndrome in animals with babesiosis: A review of current data
Abstract
A review of Babesia infection in dogs and other animals is presented, including the life cycle, epidemiology, hematological and biochemical changes, oxidative stress, immune response, clinical manifestations, diagnostic challenges, and treatment strat e gies. Babesiosis is a multifactorial disease caused by intraerythrocytic protozoa of the genus Babesia, primarily transmitted by ticks. Species such as B. canis , B. vogeli , B. gibsoni , and B. rossi differ in pathogenicity and geographic distribution. Pathogenesis involves massive hemolysis, systemic inflammation, hepatic and renal dysfunction, metabolic disorders, and oxidative stress, leading to anemia, thrombocytopenia, changes in leukocyte composition, and organ damage. Biochemical markers include el e vated ALT, AST, ALP, bilirubin, BUN, creatinine, and oxidative stress markers (MDA, LDH) with decreased antioxidant e n zymes (SOD, catalase, PON-1). Acute phase proteins (SAA, CRP) and antibody titers correlate with severity of infection and prognosis. Microscopy and serology have diagnostic limitations, while molecular methods (PCR, qPCR, LAMP) provide higher sensitivity. Clinical management requires a combined approach: specific antiprotozoal therapy, supportive care (infusions, tran s fusions), hepatoprotection, and correction of protein-energy balance. Comparative data for dogs, horses, and wild animals de m onstrate common pathogenetic mechanisms, emphasizing the role of wild reservoirs and expansion of the vector range in the spread of the disease. Integration of hematological, biochemical and immunological markers improves early diagnosis, monito r ing and prognostic assessment, especially in regions at risk of vector-borne transmission.References
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