Molecular Detection of <i>Ehrlichia canis</i> in the Pet-Dog Population in R. N. Macedonia

Abstract Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME) is a widespread, tick-borne, canine disease, caused by an obligate intracellular bacterium, Ehrlichia canis . The main vector, brown-dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus , widely distributed, especially in areas with tropic, subtropic, or Mediterranean climates (Central and South America, Eastern Western Asia, Africa, Australia Southern Europe). study performed 2012, Stefanovska et al., determined seroprevalence of 18.7% E. among the Macedonian dog population. Up to date, presence using molecular diagnostic methods, has not been investigated Macedonia. Therefore, this aimed confirm pet-dog population on territory city Skopje, North Macedonia, highly sensitive multiplex Real-Time PCR method (qPCR). Whole blood samples from 80 dogs different breeds ages, clinical symptoms CME positive serology result for antibodies against E.canis were collected analyses. Out dogs, 36 (45%) found as positive. present work reports first detection pet