Hyalomma dromedarii ticks induce a distinct acute phase reaction in dromedary camels

The effect of tick infestation in camels on the serum concentrations of the acute phase proteins (APPs) haptoglobin (Hp) and serum amyloid A (SAA) has been described. Twenty-three dromedary camels, naturally infested with Hyalomma dromedarii ticks were used. Twelve clinically healthy adult camels were used as controls. From both groups, sera were harvested and analysed for Hp and SAA concentrations. There were statistically significant elevations of Hp and SAA in tick-infested camels compared to uninfested healthy controls. Increases in Hp concentrations in the disease group were estimated to be 4.6 fold (0.52 ± 0.27 mg/L in controls vs 2.42 ± 0.51 mg/L in tick infested camels). However, increase in serum SAA were 10.9 folds (0.61 ± 0.25 ng/mL in controls vs 6.67 ± 1.97 ng/mL in tick infested camels). In conclusion, a remarkable acute phase reaction occurs in camels naturally infested with Hyalomma dromedarii ticks, and SAA is a more sensitive biomarker for tick infestation in camels than Hp.