Acta Vet. Brno 2009, 78: 471-475
Serum Zinc, Iron and Copper Concentrations in Dogs Infected with Hepatozoon canis
In Turkey, canine hepatozoonosis is an emerging infection with a large number of cases detected during the past five years. In the present study, serum zinc, copper and iron concentrations of dogs infected with Hepatozoon canis were measured for the first time. Compared to the controls (n = 10), serum zinc and iron concentrations in infected animals (n = 14) decreased significantly (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively), whereas the concentrations of copper in diseased animals increased significantly (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the results of the present study indicate that Hepatozoon canis infection may cause alterations in serum zinc iron and copper concentrations. Furthermore, in the treatment of infected animals addition of zinc and iron to the ration of infected animals should be taken into consideration.
