Molecular evidence of Anaplasma bovis in spotted deer (Axis axis): A case report

Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease caused by bacteria of the genus Anaplasma (Theiler, 1910). The disease is characterized by fever, thrombocytopenia, anemia, and a reduction in total erythrocyte count (TEC). In wildlife, anaplasmosis often goes undiagnosed due to the challenges associated with sampling free-ranging animals. Ungulates are particularly susceptible to infection due to high tick infestations and the spatial overlap of their habitats with domestic animals, which serve as reservoirs for the pathogen. This case report describes the clinical presentation and molecular diagnosis of anaplasmosis in a free-ranging spotted deer (Axis axis). The animal was found recumbent in the wild and subsequently rescued. During the tranquilization attempt, the deer succumbed. Hematological analysis revealed neutrophilia, severe anemia (low hemoglobin concentration), reduced TEC, and thrombocytopenia. Molecular screening for haemoparasites confirmed the presence of Anaplasma bovis, which was further validated through sequencing. The obtained sequence was submitted to the NCBI GenBank database, and an accession number was assigned. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated a close genetic relationship with A. bovis strains previously reported in deer from Japan. This report underscores the need for enhanced surveillance and molecular diagnostics for tick-borne pathogens in wildlife populations.