Abstract

Feline haemotropic mycoplasmosis (FHM) results from infection with Mycoplasma haemofelis, a small epicellular bacterial organism that adheres to the surface of feline erythrocytes. Formerly known as Hemobartonella felis, this pathogen induces haemolysis either through direct damage to red blood cells or by triggering immune-mediated destruction as the altered erythrocytes are recognised as foreign by the host’s immune system. Progressive destruction of erythrocytes may lead to varying degrees of anaemia, depending on the severity and duration of infection. A four-year-old neutered domestic short-haired cat was presented to Small Animal Clinic, Teaching Veterinary Hospital, Veterinary College, Bengaluru with a history of anorexia, lethargy, abnormal breathing and yellow mucous membrane. Following clinical evaluation, haematobiochemical profiling, and PCR analysis, a diagnosis of Feline Haemotropic Mycoplasmosis was established. The concurrent development of Immune-Mediated haemolytic anaemia was confirmed via a positive Coombs test. The case was successfully treated and recovered. This clinical case report describes about the case and therapeutic management.

Keywords : Feline haemotropic mycoplasmosis (FHM) results from infection with Mycoplasma haemofelis, a small epicellular bacterial organism that adheres to the surface of feline erythrocytes. Formerly known as Hemobartonella felis, this pathogen induces haemolysis e