Abstract

Identification and treatment of Trypanosomiasis in Lion

Authors: Shoaib Shafqat, Saba Ismail, Yasir Mahmood, Maryam Umar, Danish Shafqat, Muhammad Kashif Obaid, Xiao-Qing Zan

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.71081/cvj/2024.008

Abstract
Hemoparasitic diseases, like trypanosomiasis, negatively impact the health and working ability of infected animals. In this study, blood samples were collected from lions (5) including 2 lionesses kept at Bahawalpur Zoo in Pakistan. Overall prevalence of Trypanosoma infection was 20% based on microscopic smear examination. The research included a thorough clinical examination with hematological and biochemical tests and treatment of infected lion species. The infected animal exhibited clinical symptoms indicative of a Trypanosoma infection, such as intermittent fever, rapid panting, and signs of discomfort. Blood samples taken without anticoagulant were analyzed for various hematological parameters. Serum samples were examined to measure components such as total proteins and albumin levels, enzymes like alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase. Urine sample were collected directly through the urinary bladder for chemical and physical examination. Hematological examinations revealed significant deviations, such as decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit values, indicating anemia along with an increase in the erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Serum analysis showed increased alanine phosphate and decrease albumin. Other biochemical analyses showed hyperglycemia, uric acid elevation, and mild liver involvement, which are common findings in severe cases of trypanosomiasis. The treatment therapy reversed hematology and serum biochemistry and helped infected animals for overall recovery.

Keywords: Lion, Trypanosomiasis, Hematology, Treatment