Babesia odocoilei in a reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) bull calf
A 5-month-old, reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) bull calf presented to the Cornell University's Large Animal Internal Medicine service for evaluation of discolored urine and progressive hyporexia. Clinical signs included tachypnea, tachycardia, hyperthermia and icterus. Initial bloodwork revealed a metabolic acidosis, a leukocytosis, elevated urea nitrogen, and hyperbilirubinemia. Blood smear showed intra-erythrocytic piroplasms resembling Babesia. Urine produced during examination revealed isosthenuria and hemoglobinuria. A series of four doses of imidocarb dipropionate (3mg/kg IM) were administered, and the patient was maintained on fluid and oxygen support. Hemolysis secondary to Babesia infection progressed, with hematocrit reaching as low as 15%, therefore a blood transfusion was performed. The calf was given ceftiofur (2.2mg/kg SC) to prevent secondary infections, and babesiocide therapy and supportive care were continued. Clinical signs resolved within 5 days of presentation. He was gradually weaned off supportive care and discharged to the care of his owner. This is a current report of successful treatment of babesiosis, caused by Babesia odocoilei, in a captive reindeer.