Serological frequency of Ehrlichia canis in canines suspected of ehrlichiosis in the northern districts of Lima, Peru

Abstract

The study aimed to determine the serological frequency of Ehrlichia canis in canine patients in the northern area of Metropolitan Lima, Peru. Data was obtained from a clinical analysis laboratory, which receives samples from veterinary clinics of the area. Records with analyses against E. canis during the 2014-2016 period were taken, as well as those with blood count analysis. The samples were analysed with a commercial kit specific for E. canis. The serological frequency of E. canis and the association between the serological results with the variables sex, age and breed type were evaluated. A frequency of 59.4% (723/1216) of ehrlichiosis positive canines was found. A significant association of ehrlichiosis was found for patients older than 2 years and for crossbreds. In adult dogs, those positive for the disease have lower values of the red, white and platelet series compared to negative dogs.