DOI: 10.36347/sjavs.2016.v03i01.003

Pages: 20-25

Anaplasma platys belong to the Anaplasmataceae family, infecting platelets of dogs, leading to a disease known as canine cyclic thrombocytopenia (CCT) and are transmitted by ixodid ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus). The present study aims to assess the occurrence of this parasite in Pelotas, southern region of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, investigate de clinical and hematological abnormalities and perform its molecular detection. Blood samples from 89 dogs were drawn (from jugular or cephalic veins) in order to carry out red blood count (RBC), platelet count and polymerase chain reaction (PCR/nested PCR) followed by product sequencing. The presence of morulae within platelets was investigated. Results obtained with blood smear showed 1.1% for Anaplasma spp. A total of 7/89 samples (7.9%) were positive for A. platys by nested PCR. In conclusion, the clinical signs and hematological changes detected were nonspecific and common to others diseases. Therefore, it is imperative the use of specific diagnostic techniques in order to identify the etiologic agents.