BABESIA CANIS Meaning and
Definition
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Babesia canis is a species of protozoan parasite that belongs to the genus Babesia, which predominantly infects dogs. It is a significant pathogen responsible for causing canine babesiosis, a tick-borne disease characterized by the destruction of red blood cells.
The parasite is transmitted primarily by tick vectors, particularly those of the Ixodes species. Once transmitted to the dog through a tick bite, the Babesia canis parasites invade and reproduce within the host's red blood cells, resulting in a variety of clinical symptoms. These symptoms can include pale gums, severe anemia, fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, weight loss, and in severe cases, organ failure.
The severity of the disease can vary depending on the stage of infection and the dog's immune response. Some infected dogs may remain asymptomatic carriers, while others may experience mild to severe illnesses. Canine babesiosis caused by Babesia canis can be life-threatening, especially in puppies, older dogs, or those with weakened immune systems.
Diagnosing Babesia canis infection is done through microscopic examination of blood smears, where the characteristic shape and motion of the parasite can be observed within red blood cells. Treatment usually involves the use of specific medications, such as anti-protozoal drugs, to eliminate the parasite from the dog's bloodstream.
Preventing Babesia canis infection involves implementing effective tick control measures, such as regular grooming, avoiding tick-infested areas, and using tick-preventive products. Additionally, vaccination for Babesia canis may be available in certain regions with a higher prevalence of the disease.
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A species pathogenic for dogs.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for BABESIA CANIS
- vabesia canis
- nabesia canis
- habesia canis
- gabesia canis
- bzbesia canis
- bsbesia canis
- bwbesia canis
- bqbesia canis
- bavesia canis
- banesia canis
- bahesia canis
- bagesia canis
- babwsia canis
- babssia canis
- babdsia canis
- babrsia canis
- bab4sia canis
- bab3sia canis
- babeaia canis
- babezia canis
Etymology of BABESIA CANIS
The word "Babesia" is named after the Romanian bacteriologist Victor Babeș, who first discovered the genus in 1888. He identified the organism Babesia while studying the cause of a fatal disease in cattle. The term "Babesia" was coined as a tribute to his significant contributions to the field.
The species name "canis" is derived from Latin and means "dog". When combined, "Babesia canis" refers to a specific type of Babesia parasite that primarily infects dogs, causing a disease known as canine babesiosis.
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