Peripheral Blood Leucocyte Apoptosis in Two Dogs Infected with Trypanosoma congolense

Abstract

Blood leucocyte apoptosis in the trypanosome-infected natural hosts is yet to be documented and recognized as a feature of trypanosomiasis. We provide evidence of marked peripheral blood leucocyte apoptosis in two cases of dogs severely infected with Trypanosoma congolense. It is expected that this case report will prompt more investigations into trypanosome-induced leucocyte apoptosis, especially the identification of trypanosome apoptotic factors and their role in the pathogenesis of the disease. In addition, these case reports underline the importance of a thorough differential diagnosis in cases of suspected poisoning in exotic breeds of dog.

Keywords: Leucocyte apoptosis, Trypanosoma congolense, dog.