Occurrence of Trypanosoma Theileri Laveran, 1902 in a Holstein Friesian Cross-Bred Cow

An adult Holstein Friesian cross-bred cow was brought to Madras Veterinary College Teaching Hospital with the history of anorexia and fever. Peripheral blood smear stained by Leishman revealed large sized (About 60 mm) extracellular parasites. Haematological examination revealed anisocytosis and hypochromasia. Based on the morphology of the parasite which had long and pointed posterior end, subterminal kinetoplast, well defined undulating membrane and free flagellum, it was identified as Trypanosoma theileri Laveran, 1902. The animal showed anaemia, hypoproteinaemia, hypoalbuminaemia, hypophosphataemia and reductions in BUN, creatinine and AST levels.