PIROPLASMS 

 STAINED SPECIMEN 



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PIROPLASMS 



Belonging like the malarial parasite to the Haemosporidia we have a 

 group of parasites known as the PIROPLASMS. The correct name for 

 these parasites is Babesia but they are better known under the name 

 Piroplasma. They are minute organisms, usually pear or rod shape, 

 which invade the red corpuscles. They produce no pigment but 

 destroy the corpuscle and set free the Hb. which is excreted in enor- 

 mous amounts by the kidneys. It is this which gives the name red- 

 water to the disease usually designated Texas fever of cattle. 



