Successful treatment of hepatozoonosis with imidocarb dipropionate and release of a free‐ranging Persian leopard ( Panthera pardus saxicolor )

Abstract Hepatozoonosis is a tick‐borne protozoan disease affecting domestic and wild carnivores; however, reports in free‐ranging Persian leopards ( Panthera pardus saxicolor ) and documented therapeutic outcomes are lacking. This case report describes the clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment and successful release of a wild Persian leopard with severe hepatozoonosis. An adult female leopard from northeastern Iran presented with depression, abnormal behaviour, neurological deficits, sensory loss and weight loss. Haematology revealed leukocytosis with neutrophilia, and Hepatozoon gamonts were identified in neutrophils on Wright–Giemsa‐stained blood smears, confirmed by PCR targeting the 18S rRNA gene. Serum biochemistry showed elevated liver enzymes and creatine kinase. Imaging excluded traumatic abnormalities. Viral diseases were ruled out using PCR assays. Treatment with oxytetracycline, imidocarb dipropionate and supportive care resulted in complete clinical recovery during 3 months of rehabilitation. The leopard was successfully released with confirmed reintegration. To the authors’ knowledge, this represents the first documented case describing successful treatment, rehabilitation and release of a free‐ranging Persian leopard with hepatozoonosis.