Isolated in 1966 by Dr. Harold Ray Emerson, the original
research and naming of Babesia odocoilei was done by Emerson at
Texas A&M University in the Department of Veterinary
Pathology. Babesia odocoilei is a tick transmitted protozoan
parasite which is found in circulating erythrocytes. It reproduces
through binary fission and/or budding. Free parasites may be
observed following rupture of damaged red blood cells. The
tick vector appears to be Ixodes scapularis. The infection is
pathogenic in deer in Texas, and it does infect other species as
well. Precipitating factors in native populations include
tick infestation, poor nutrition, infection by the Babesia
odocoilei organism and external stress factors, i.e.. weather
conditions, concurrent disease. Diagnosis is difficult and
may require culture procedures. Microscopic detection of the
organisms in stained blood films is possible but may be difficult
in sick animals because of severe anemia and general
debilitation. Distribution of Babesia odocoilei has been
widespread in Texas in the past, and spread is related to that of
its tick vector.
Some research and photomicrographs featured under this
heading, Babesia odocoilei Directory, were done by Dr. Harold Ray
Emerson in original research in the Department of Veterinary
Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M
University, College Station, Texas, Thesis, 1969. Others were
performed by other identified researchers (were possible) from
throughout the United States.
