Hepatozoon spp (PCB017) - Bioguardlabs

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Hepatozoon spp. (PCB017)

Specimen type

EDTA whole blood

Hepatozoonosis is a disease transmitted by ticks, caused by a type of protozoan called Hepatozoon. This disease can be caused by two different protozoan species: Hepatozoon canis and Hepatozoon americanum. H. canis is found in many regions of the world, including Asia, Africa, the Caribbean islands, Europe, and South America, while H. americanum is primarily seen in the southern and southeastern regions of the United States.

Infections induced by H. canis typically exhibit milder symptoms, as these pathogens tend to inhabit immune system locales such as lymph nodes and bone marrow, along with organs like the spleen responsible for blood storage. Consequently, manifestations commonly involve swollen lymph nodes, pale gums, and a general feeling of fatigue. Some pets infected with H. canis may present very mild symptoms or remain asymptomatic altogether.
On the other hand, infections caused by H. americanum can result in more serious health complications if left untreated. Affected pets may display various symptoms, including increased body temperature, fatigue, decreased appetite leading to weight loss, muscle or bone pain, decline in muscle mass, and discharge from the eyes.