Molecular detection of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in hair and spleen of cats revealed a possible underestimation of feline vector-borne pathogens

Feline Vector-Borne Diseases show increased global prevalence and some Anaplasma Ehrlichia species may pose a risk to human health. The diagnosis of infection in cats is achieved by the combined use different methods as cytologic examination evidencing intracytoplasmic morulae, serologic tests molecular assays. peripheral whole blood considered sample choice for DNA detection cats, but false negative results are reported leading underestimation prevalence. In order have more accurate assessment spread feline vector-borne pathogens, presence spp. 37 owner shelter subjected necropsy were prospectively investigated testing end-point PCR spleen, bone marrow, clot hair samples. bacteria identified genetically characterised. Three tested positive A. phagocytophilum spleen (one cat) or samples (two cats). None marrow From obtained, it can be assumed that could allow reliable with negative. phylogeny constructed fragment heat shock (groEL) gene nucleotide sequences, all clustered infecting wide range hosts, including humans, showing potential zoonotic role.