Also known as: Febbre da zecca
L'ehrlichiosi è una malattia trasmessa dalle zecche causata da batteri Ehrlichia che infettano i globuli bianchi. Nel cane, Ehrlichia canis, trasmessa dalla zecca bruna del cane, causa febbre acuta e tendenza emorragica che può progredire verso una fase cronica con soppressione del midollo osseo. Alcune specie di Ehrlichia infettano anche l'uomo tramite morsi di zecca, il che la rende una preoccupazione zoonotica.
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.
