CHAPTER VI 
PIROPLASMOSIS TICK FEVER, . 
Piroplasma are small parasites of varying shape which invade 
the red blood cells. In some animals they are often pear-shaped, 
hence the generic term applied. The disease is conveyed by the 
bites of infected ticks. As far as elephants are concerned, there is 
practically nothing known. 
In cattle in the acute form the symptoms are high fever, urine 
tinged with blood in most cases, also jaundiced membranes, anaem.ia, 
staggering gait, nervous symptoms, or even paralysis. In some cases 
we meet with constipation followed by diarrhoea in which there is a 
considerable admixture of blood. In the benign form there is an 
absence of bloody urine and jaundice, but there is often marked 
anaemia. 
I am indebted to Mr. Hepburn for notes on the following case, 
which is of interest. 
The animal in question was a young tusker resting during the 
hot months. 
For some days previous to the 5th June, he had been noticed to 
be unwell, gradually becoming worse. 
On this date, the bowels were constipated, and the urine very 
dark in colour. 
On the 6th, Mr. Hepburn saw him and he suspected surra. The 
animal was dull, greatly run down, he could hardly stand. Pulse 56, 
temperature 98-8° F., mucous membranes of eyes very deep yellow. 
The bowels were constipated and urine of a dark red colour. The 
animal refused food. 
Moderate doses of epsom salts were ordered and blood smears 
taken for examination. 
June 7th. — Examination of blood smears proved negative. The 
animal appeared a trifle brighter and was inclined to take a 
little food. Condition of mucous membranes was the same. 
Pulse 50, temperature 98° F. Dung was reported to have been 
passed, also urine which was said to be lighter in colour. Steps 
were taken to attend to the state of the bowels. 
June 8th. — Feeding is little better, bowels regular, membranes a 
trifle clearer, temperature normal. 
