Abstract

Concurrent canine leptospirosis and babesiosis, though rare, can synergistically exacerbate systemic illness, leading to multi-organ dysfunction and posing a significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. A two-year-old male Doberman was presented with an acute onset of fever, lethargy, anorexia, progressive weakness, and jaundice. Clinical examination revealed marked pallor, icterus, tachycardia, and dehydration. Hematobiochemical evaluation demonstrated anemia, thrombocytopenia, azotaemia, elevated hepatic enzymes, increased serum creatinine, hyperbilirubinemia, and significant electrolyte imbalances. Molecular confirmation using a multi-antigen-targeted polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay on Day 1 identified a concurrent co-infection with Leptospira spp. and Babesia gibsoni. Despite prompt diagnosis and initiation of appropriate therapeutic interventions, the animal showed rapid clinical deterioration and eventually succumbed to the illness. This clinical case report highlights the severe secondary complications arising from the synergistic effects of leptospiral and babesial co-infection, leading to multisystemic involvement and irreversible organ damage.

Keywords : mods, dic, sirs, leptospirosis, babesiosis