Also known as: Flåtfeber
Ehrlichiose er en flåtbåren sygdom forårsaget af Ehrlichia-bakterier, der inficerer hvide blodlegemer. Hos hunde giver Ehrlichia canis, der overføres af den brune hundeflåt, akut feber og blødningstendens, som kan udvikle sig til en kronisk fase med knoglemarvsundertrykkelse. Visse Ehrlichia-arter smitter også mennesker gennem flåtbid, hvilket gør det til en zoonotisk bekymring.
Ehrlichiosis is a rickettsial disease caused by Ehrlichia species, most notably Ehrlichia canis in dogs. It is transmitted by ticks and has zoonotic relatives that infect people.
Infection follows the bite of an infected tick, chiefly the brown dog tick. The bacteria invade white blood cells and disseminate through the body.
Acute disease causes fever, lethargy, weight loss, and bleeding tendencies with low platelets; chronic disease can cause severe bone-marrow suppression and pancytopenia.
Diagnosis uses antibody tests, PCR, and blood smears showing morulae, alongside complete blood counts revealing thrombocytopenia.
Doxycycline is highly effective, especially in the acute phase; transfusions and supportive care may be needed in severe chronic cases.
Use year-round tick control, perform regular tick checks, and manage the environment to reduce brown dog tick infestations.
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your veterinarian.
