Ehrlichia canis Infection Induced Chronic Kidney Disease in a Labrador Retriever and Its Management: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic kidney disease is irreversible, progressive and most common form of kidney disease in dogs. Canine ehrlichiosis is caused by gram negative intracellular bacteria Ehrlichia canis. Case Presentation: A 7-year old Labrador retriever male dog weighing around 35 kg was presented to the Madras Veterinary College Teaching Hospital with a history of inappetence, vomiting, polyuria and polydipsia from fifteen days. The dog was fully vaccinated and dewormed. On general clinical examination, all vital parameters were within normal range except elevated temperature (103.8°F). The hematological findings revealed mild thrombocytopenia and hypochromasia. The serum biochemistry revealed increased creatinine level (3.68 mg/dl). The blood pressure was measured using Doppler device which revealed secondary hypertension. A blood smear examination was found to be negative. Case Discussion: The animal was treated for chronic kidney failure. Even then animal was going down and not taking feed. The blood sample was sent for Molecular PCR which confirmed presence of Ehrlichia canis. Then animal was treated for Canine Monocytic Ehrlichiosis to control Ehrlichia canis induced renal failure. Then there was little progress in condition of the animal. The animal was maintained with a renal diet.