Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Control of Canine Infectious Cyclic Thrombocytopenia and Granulocytic Anaplasmosis:
Atif FA, Mehnaz S, Qamar MF, Roheen T, Sajid MS, Ehtisham-Ul-Haque S, Kashif M, Ben Said M. Vet Sci. 2021 Dec 8;8(12):312.
Epidemiology of Anaplasmosis
Anaplasmosis is a vector-borne disease that affects both animals and humans, primarily caused by Anaplasma platys (canine cyclic thrombocytopenia) and Anaplasma phagocytophilum (granulocytic anaplasmosis).
A. platys mainly infects platelets in canines, characterized by symptoms like fever, lethargy, and thrombocytopenia.
A. phagocytophilum infects granulocytes and is zoonotic with cases reported worldwide.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis relies on recognizing clinical signs, blood smear microscopy for intracellular inclusions, and serological tests.
DNA sequencing is often necessary to confirm the specific strain due to serological cross-reactivity issues.
Control Strategies
Control involves detecting and managing vector populations (such as ticks) and preventing mechanical transmission.
Tetracyclines are effective treatments, although no universal vaccine exists.
Preventative measures include reducing tick exposure—especially during high-risk activities like hiking and gardening.
Clinical Findings
In dogs, Anaplasma infections result in variable symptoms, including fever, weakness, and splenomegaly.
In humans, symptoms of granulocytic anaplasmosis range from mild flu-like signs to severe conditions requiring hospitalization, with a mortality rate of 7–10%.
Global Epidemiology
Anaplasma phagocytophilum has been documented in multiple species across continents with varying prevalence based on geographic area and host factors.
Reports indicate fluctuating infection rates: 0.4% - 87.5% in dogs and 15-36% in humans under certain circumstances.