Introduction

Levels of troponin I (cTnI) in canine patients increase after myocardial injury. E. canis has been implicated as a pathogen with potential to damage myocardial cells.

Objective

The main objective of the study is to determine serum cTnI concentrations in dogs infected with E. canis and in clinically healthy dogs.

Methodology

Sixty dogs were divided in two groups. Group 1 (G1) consisted of clinically healthy dogs (n=20). Group 2 (G2) consisted of dogs with clinical and hematological signs compatible with canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME; n=40). Blood samples were obtained from both groups, and PCR was carried out for all samples. cTnI were measured in all serum samples.

Results

PCR result, levels of cTnI and hematologic disorders are shown in Table 1.

Table 1. PCR result, levels of troponin I and hematologic disorders in dogs infected with E. canis and in clinically healthy dogs

Conclusions

Serum values of cTnI in PCR-positive dogs are higher than in control canine, indicating some level of myocardial injury. Additionally, red blood cell counts plus hemoglobin measurements were statistically lower in E. canis PCR-positive dogs, confirming previous reports. This research is a contribution to physiopathology of CME.