Ureamic syndrome in Theleria equi-infected Argentine Polo Pony: A Case Report

Abstract

On June 26 , 2016, an 8-year old Argentine Polo Pony in the Fifth Chukker Polo and Country Resort, Maraban Jos, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria was reported with the chief complaint of anorexia, depression, recurrent recumbency, colic and pyrexia. Physical examination revealed the following signs; pyrexia, tachypnoea and rapid pulse rates, bilateral epiphora as well as icteric ocular, gingival and vaginal mucous membranes, 5% dehydration, trembling, sweating, colic, body condition score of 3/5, reddish brown urine and tick infestation (identified as Rhipicephalus spp). Blood was collected via jugular venipuncture into vacutainer containing ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) for microscopic and haematological analyses while a second aliquot was transferred into plain vacutainer for biochemical analysis. Giemsastained thin blood smear revealed the presence of Theileria equi haemogram revealed normocytic hypochromic anaemia with thrombocytopaenia. The biochemical analysis showed decreased serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels, hyperproteinaemia, hyperglobulinaemia, ureamia, hyperkalaemia, hyponatraemia, hypochloraemia and decreased bicarbonate concentration. Based on the presenting clinical signs, presence of ticks and laboratory findings, equine piroplasmosis accompanied by ureamic syndromewas diagnosed.