Ehrlichiosis and polyarthritis in three dogs
Cowell, R.L.; Tyler, R.D.; Clinkenbeard, K.D.; Meinkoth, J.H.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 192(8): 1093-1095
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0003-1488 PMID: 3372339 Document Number: 316070
3 dogs admitted for investigation of lameness were found to be infected with a neutrophilic strain of Ehrlichia. Ehrlichia morulae were detected in low numbers in both synovial fluid and blood neutrophils. The dogs had rapid clinical improvement after appropriate antibiotic therapy. A diagnosis of canine ehrlichiosis easily could have been missed if morulae had not been identified. Ehrlichiosis should be considered in acutely lame dogs residing in areas enzootic for ehrlichiosis. A careful search for Ehrlichia morulae within synovial fluid and blood neutrophils should be performed. An E. canis titre determination also may be helpful.