Canine granulocytic ehrlichiosis in a Bernese mountain dog in Indonesia: A rare case confirmed by neutrophilic morulae
Abstract
Canine ehrlichiosis is a tick-borne disease caused by intracellular bacteria belonging to the genus Ehrlichia. While Ehrlichia canis is the predominant species reported in Indonesia, this case describes a suspected infection by Ehrlichia ewingii, a species not previously reported in the country. A 7-year-old female Bernese mountain dog presented with generalized weakness, anorexia, cachexia, vomiting, hematuria, diarrhea, and melena. Clinical evaluation, hematological abnormalities, a history of tick exposure, and a positive serologic test supported the diagnosis of ehrlichiosis. Notably, cytological examination revealed morulae within neutrophils, an indicator suggestive of E. ewingii infection. The patient was treated with doxycycline, imidocarb dipropionate, and renal support for two weeks; however, follow-up was not completed. This case highlights the importance of cytological examination in ehrlichiosis diagnosis and raises the possibility of imported or emerging E. ewingii infections in Indonesia.
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References
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