Atypical findings in 16 cases of canine ehrlichiosis.

Abstract

Sixteen cases of clinically and serologically diagnosed canine ehrlichiosis were studied retrospectively. Findings not previously reported included diffuse, pulmonary interstitial radiopacities; weak-positive results for blastomycosis, using agar gel immunodiffusion; normal platelet counts; hemorrhage despite platelet counts greater than 100,000/mm3, and positive results for platelet factor 3 and antinuclear antibody assays. These atypical findings showed that the differential diagnosis of canine ehrlichiosis, blastomycosis, immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, and primary nasal lesions may be confusing, warranting careful assessment. The increased release of platelet factor 3 and the finding of antinuclear antibodies supported an immune mechanism in the pathogenesis of canine ehrlichiosis, as suggested by previous experimental studies.

• Authors: E C Codner, R E Roberts, A G Ainsworth
• Journal: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (J Am Vet Med Assoc) Vol. 186 Issue 2 Pg. 166-9 (Jan 15 1985) ISSN: 0003-1488 [Print] United States
• PMID: 3918976 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Antibodies, Antinuclear
• Platelet Factor 3

Topics

• Animals
• Antibodies, Antinuclear (analysis)
• Diagnosis, Differential
• Dog Diseases (diagnosis, diagnostic imaging)
• Dogs
• Ehrlichia
• Female
• Immunodiffusion (veterinary)
• Male
• Platelet Count (veterinary)
• Platelet Factor 3 (analysis)
• Radiography, Thoracic (veterinary)
• Retrospective Studies
• Rickettsiaceae Infections (diagnosis, diagnostic imaging, veterinary)