Case Report on Pcr-Based Diagnosis of Caprine Theileriosis Caused by Theileria luwenshuni in the Veterinary Surgeon’s Division in Ampara, Ampara District, Sri Lanka

Theileriosis is a tick-borne disease of small ruminants that causes substantial economic losses in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. This case report describes the diagnosis and treatment of theileriosis in a goat herd in Sri Lanka. The outbreak occurred in a herd of 42 goats located in Ambagahawella Grama Niladhari Division within the Ampara Veterinary Surgeon’s Range, Ampara District. The herd experienced seven deaths over a period of 2–3 weeks, preceded by anorexia, lethargy, and diarrhoea. Clinical examination of affected animals revealed pale conjunctivae, pyrexia, superficial lymphadenopathy, a dull hair coat, and severe tick infestation. Differential diagnoses included gastrointestinal parasitism and haemoparasitism. Faecal examinations of four clinically affected goats and six apparently healthy animals were negative for gastrointestinal parasites. However, microscopic evaluation of Leishman-stained thin blood smears revealed intra-erythrocytic stages consistent with Theileria spp. Whole blood samples were submitted to the Division of Parasitology, Veterinary Research Institute, Peradeniya, for molecular confirmation. PCR testing confirmed the presence of the pathogenic species Theileria luwenshuni, while T. uilenbergi and T. lestoquardi were not detected. Infected goats were treated with an anti-protozoal and an antibiotic with supportive therapy. Three of the four clinically affected goats responded to treatment and recovered, whereas one severely affected animal succumbed to the infection. This report highlights the emergence of T. luwenshuni infection in goats in Sri Lanka and emphasises the importance of early diagnosis, prompt treatment, and tick control for effective disease management.