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Pusterla N, Lawton K, Barnum S. Investigation of the seroprevalence to equine coronavirus and SARS-CoV-2 in healthy adult horses recently imported to the United States. Vet Q 2024; 44:1-6. [PMID: 38010292 PMCID: PMC10949836 DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2023.2288876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Adult horses are susceptible to equine coronavirus (ECoV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), although, only ECoV has been linked to clinical disease. Little information is available regarding the seroprevalence against ECoV and SARS-CoV-2 in adult healthy horses. The goal of the present study was to determine the seroprevalence against two coronaviruses known to infect horses using convenience samples collected from horses recently imported from Europe to the United States from 2019 to 2023. A total of 385 banked serum samples were tested against ECoV and SARS-CoV-2 using previously validated ELISA assays. Prevalence factors including date of arrival in the United States, signalment and country of origin were available for the majority of the horses. A total of 9/385 (2.3%) and 4/385 (1.0%) horses tested seropositive for ECoV and SARS-CoV-2, respectively. The ECoV seropositive horses were all mares, ages 4 to 26 years (median 9 years) and originated from Germany, the Netherlands, Ireland, Belgium and Italy. These mares were predominantly imported during the summer and fall months. All SARS-CoV-2 seropositive horses were mares ages 5 to 10 years (median 7.5 years) imported from the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. The majority of the SARS-CoV-2 seropositive horses were imported during the colder months of the year. The study results support the presence of ECoV in Europe and report on the first SARS-CoV-2 seropositive healthy adult horses outside the United States. Commingling for movements by air and close contact to humans may predispose transmission with ECoV and SARS-CoV-2, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Pusterla
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Kaila Lawton
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Samantha Barnum
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
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Herbst AC, Coleman MC, Macon EL, Brokman A, Stromberg AJ, Harris PA, Adams AA. Retirement risk factors, exercise management and muscle mass in US senior horses. Equine Vet J 2024; 56:522-534. [PMID: 37341387 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Information on the management and health of US senior horses (≥15 years of age) is currently limited. OBJECTIVES Provide information on (1) primary use of US senior horses, (2) reasons and risk factors for horse retirement, (3) exercise management, (4) prevalence of low muscle mass and (5) risk factors for, and owner-perceived consequences of, low muscle mass. STUDY DESIGN Online survey. METHODS Survey responses from 2717 owners of U.S.-resident senior horses (≥15 years of age) were analysed descriptively and inferentially, using ordered and binomial logistic regression, ANOVA and the Kruskal-Wallis test. RESULTS The most frequently reported primary uses were pleasure riding/driving (38.5%) and full retirement (39.8%). Most horses (61.5%) were retired between 15 and 24 years of age, with health problems being the main reason. Age, female sex, Thoroughbred breed and various medical conditions were identified as risk factors for retirement. In working horses (i.e., those not retired or semi-retired), exercise intensity was negatively associated with age. The owner-reported prevalence of low muscle mass in all horses was 17.2% (95%CI = 15.7-18.7). In those affected by low muscle mass, the ability to work and welfare-related aspects were commonly perceived to be impaired. Increasing age, sex (gelding), pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction, osteoarthritis, laminitis and primary use (retired and semi-retired vs. use for competition) were identified as risk factors for owner-reported low muscle mass. MAIN LIMITATIONS Potential response, recall and sampling bias. Causal relationships cannot be established. CONCLUSIONS Although structured exercise into old age may provide health benefits (as seen in elderly people), a large proportion of horses were fully retired in the current study. Senior horses were mainly retired for health problems and characterising these problems may aid in extending their work/active life. Low muscle mass was perceived to affect horses' welfare and ability to work, and identification of prevention and treatment strategies is therefore warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alisa C Herbst
- M. H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Michelle C Coleman
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Erica L Macon
- M. H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Aviv Brokman
- Department of Statistics, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Arnold J Stromberg
- Department of Statistics, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Pat A Harris
- Equine Studies Group, Waltham Petcare Science Institute, Leicestershire, UK
| | - Amanda A Adams
- MARS EQUESTRIAN™ Research Fellow, M. H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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Wright I, Minshall G, Young N, Riggs C. Fractures in Thoroughbred racing and the potential for pre-race identification of horses at risk. Equine Vet J 2024; 56:424-436. [PMID: 38200406 DOI: 10.1111/evj.14046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Risk rates for and predisposing factors to fractures occurring in Thoroughbred racing that have been published in peer reviewed journals are documented. The potential for currently available techniques to identify horses at increased risk for fracture is discussed on the bases of principles, practicalities, advantages, disadvantages and current data. All are reviewed in light of justifiable decision making and importance of fractures to horseracing's social license.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Wright
- Newmarket Equine Referrals, Newmarket, Suffolk, UK
| | | | | | - Christopher Riggs
- Equine Welfare Research Foundation, The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Sha Tin Racecourse, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Rendle D, Hughes K, Bowen M, Bull K, Cameron I, Furtado T, Peachey L, Sharpe L, Hodgkinson J. BEVA primary care clinical guidelines: Equine parasite control. Equine Vet J 2024; 56:392-423. [PMID: 38169127 DOI: 10.1111/evj.14036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a lack of consensus on how best to balance our need to minimise the risk of parasite-associated disease in the individual horse, with the need to limit the use of anthelmintics in the population to preserve their efficacy through delaying further development of resistance. OBJECTIVES To develop evidence-based guidelines utilising a modified GRADE framework. METHODS A panel of veterinary scientists with relevant expertise and experience was convened. Relevant research questions were identified and developed with associated search terms being defined. Evidence in the veterinary literature was evaluated using the GRADE evidence-to-decision framework. Literature searches were performed utilising CAB abstracts and PubMed. Where there was insufficient evidence to answer the research question the panel developed practical guidance based on their collective knowledge and experience. RESULTS Search results are presented, and recommendation or practical guidance were made in response to 37 clinically relevant questions relating to the use of anthelmintics in horses. MAIN LIMITATIONS There was insufficient evidence to answer many of the questions with any degree of certainty and practical guidance frequently had to be based upon extrapolation of relevant information and the panel members' collective experience and opinions. CONCLUSIONS Equine parasite control practices and current recommendations have a weak evidence base. These guidelines highlight changes in equine parasite control that should be considered to reduce the threat of parasite-associated disease and delay the development of further anthelmintic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kristopher Hughes
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark Bowen
- Medicine Vet Referrals, Nottinghamshire, UK
| | - Katie Bull
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Tamzin Furtado
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | - Laura Peachey
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Jane Hodgkinson
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
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Pala S, Martínez-Sáez L, Llobat L, Marín-García PJ. Prevalence and factors associated with Leishmania spp. and Toxoplasma gondii infections in apparently healthy horses in Eastern Spain. Res Vet Sci 2024; 171:105236. [PMID: 38531238 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis and toxoplasmosis are two of the most common parasitic zoonoses. Leishmaniasis is endemic to 98 countries around the world, whereas toxoplasmosis is widely distributed throughout the world, causing significant health expenditure. Horses can play a relevant role in the transmission of the disease, being a silent reservoir, as clinical signs are not common. Serum samples from 166 horses living in eastern Spain (Mediterranean basin) were analysed to determine the presence of antibodies against Leishmania spp. and T. gondii by ELISA (Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay.) The risk factors evaluated were the geographical area and the relative humidity and average temperature, and epidemiological factors such as sex, reproductive status, age, breed, morphotype, living with other domestic animals, use and access to the outdoors. Seroprevalence of Leishmania spp. and T. gondii infection was found 28.92%, and 16.27% respectively, whereas co-infection of the two parasites was found only in two males. Leishmania seroprevalence was high in castrated males and several mesodolichomorphic equine breeds used for teaching, as well as in outdoor animals. The most elevated seroprevalence was found in winter with higher levels of rainfall, whereas high seroprevalence of T. gondii was found in crossbreeding animals and those used for breeding. High seroprevalence of Leishmania spp. and T. gondii was found in horses of the Mediterranean basin. These data suggest that horses can act as a silent reservoir and that this species has high potential for transmission to humans, outdoor animals and in geographical areas with high average rainfall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuele Pala
- Molecular Mechanisms of Zoonotic Diseases (MMOPS) Research group, Departamento Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos (PASAPTA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46113 Valencia, Spain
| | - Lola Martínez-Sáez
- Molecular Mechanisms of Zoonotic Diseases (MMOPS) Research group, Departamento Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos (PASAPTA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46113 Valencia, Spain
| | - Lola Llobat
- Molecular Mechanisms of Zoonotic Diseases (MMOPS) Research group, Departamento Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos (PASAPTA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46113 Valencia, Spain.
| | - Pablo Jesús Marín-García
- Departamento Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos (PASAPTA), Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, 46113 Valencia, Spain
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Nardini R, Pacchiarotti G, Svicher V, Salpini R, Bellocchi MC, Conti R, Sala MG, La Rocca D, Carioti L, Cersini A, Manna G, Scicluna MT. First National Prevalence in Italian Horse Population and Phylogenesis Highlight a Fourth Sub-Type Candidate of Equine Hepacivirus. Viruses 2024; 16:616. [PMID: 38675957 PMCID: PMC11054338 DOI: 10.3390/v16040616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Equine hepacivirus (EqHV, Flaviviridae, hepacivirus) is a small, enveloped RNA virus generally causing sub-clinical hepatitis with occasional fatalities. EqHV is reported in equids worldwide, but for Italy data are limited. To address this, a survey study was set up to estimate prevalence at a national level and among different production categories (equestrian; competition; work and meat; reproduction) and national macro-regions (North, Central, South, and Islands). Data obtained testing 1801 horse serum samples by Real-Time RT PCR were compared within the categories and regions. The NS3 fragment of the PCR-positive samples was sequenced by Sanger protocol for phylogenetic and mutational analysis. The tertiary structure of the NS3 protein was also assessed. The estimated national prevalence was 4.27% [1.97-6.59, 95% CI] and no statistical differences were detected among production categories and macro-regions. The phylogenesis confirmed the distribution in Italy of the three known EqHV subtypes, also suggesting a possible fourth sub-type that, however, requires further confirmation. Mutational profiles that could also affect the NS3 binding affinity to the viral RNA were detected. The present paper demonstrates that EqHV should be included in diagnostic protocols when investigating causes of hepatitis, and in quality control protocols for blood derived products due to its parental transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Nardini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, 00178 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (R.C.); (M.G.S.); (D.L.R.); (A.C.); (G.M.); (M.T.S.)
| | - Giulia Pacchiarotti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, 00178 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (R.C.); (M.G.S.); (D.L.R.); (A.C.); (G.M.); (M.T.S.)
| | - Valentina Svicher
- Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Romina Salpini
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (R.S.); (M.C.B.); (L.C.)
| | - Maria Concetta Bellocchi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (R.S.); (M.C.B.); (L.C.)
| | - Raffaella Conti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, 00178 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (R.C.); (M.G.S.); (D.L.R.); (A.C.); (G.M.); (M.T.S.)
| | - Marcello Giovanni Sala
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, 00178 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (R.C.); (M.G.S.); (D.L.R.); (A.C.); (G.M.); (M.T.S.)
| | - Davide La Rocca
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, 00178 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (R.C.); (M.G.S.); (D.L.R.); (A.C.); (G.M.); (M.T.S.)
| | - Luca Carioti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (R.S.); (M.C.B.); (L.C.)
| | - Antonella Cersini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, 00178 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (R.C.); (M.G.S.); (D.L.R.); (A.C.); (G.M.); (M.T.S.)
| | - Giuseppe Manna
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, 00178 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (R.C.); (M.G.S.); (D.L.R.); (A.C.); (G.M.); (M.T.S.)
| | | | - Maria Teresa Scicluna
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana “M. Aleandri”, 00178 Rome, Italy; (G.P.); (R.C.); (M.G.S.); (D.L.R.); (A.C.); (G.M.); (M.T.S.)
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Yuen NKY, Bielefeldt-Ohmann H, Coyle MP, Henning J. Exposure dynamics of Ross River virus in horses - Horses as potential sentinels (a One Health approach). Epidemiol Infect 2024; 152:e67. [PMID: 38606586 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268824000554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Ross River virus (RRV), the most medically and economically important arbovirus in Australia, has been the most prevalent arbovirus infections in humans for many years. Infected humans and horses often suffer similar clinical symptoms. We conducted a prospective longitudinal study over a 3.5-year period to investigate the exposure dynamics of RRV in three foal cohorts (n = 32) born in a subtropical region of South East Queensland, Australia, between 2020 and 2022. RRV-specific seroconversion was detected in 56% (n = 18) of foals with a median time to seroconversion, after waning of maternal antibodies, of 429 days (95% CI: 294-582). The median age at seroconversion was 69 weeks (95% CI: 53-57). Seroconversion events were only detected between December and March (Southern Hemisphere summer) over the entire study period. Cox proportion hazards regression analyses revealed that seroconversions were significantly (p < 0.05) associated with air temperature in the month of seroconversion. Time-lags in meteorological variables were not significantly (p > 0.05) associated with seroconversion, except for relative humidity (p = 0.036 at 2-month time-lag). This is in contrast to research results of RRV infection in humans, which peaked between March and May (Autumn) and with a 0-3 month time-lag for various meteorological risk factors. Therefore, horses may be suitable sentinels for monitoring active arbovirus circulation and could be used for early arbovirus outbreak detection in human populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas K Y Yuen
- School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia
| | - Helle Bielefeldt-Ohmann
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, Faculty of Science, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
- Australian Infectious Diseases Research Centre, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Mitchell P Coyle
- Equine Unit, Office of the Director Gatton Campus, Faculty of Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia
| | - Joerg Henning
- School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Queensland, Australia
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Miklavcic M, Dechant JE, Kilcoyne I. Ponies, miniatures, and younger equids are at higher risk of fecalith obstruction compared to a general colic population. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2024; 262:543-551. [PMID: 38324997 DOI: 10.2460/javma.23.09.0520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine breed, age, and sex predispositions for fecalith obstruction and to evaluate short-term survival and prognostic factors following surgical treatment of fecalith intestinal obstruction in equids. ANIMALS 151 equids. METHODS Medical records of equids undergoing surgery for fecalith obstruction from 2000 to 2020 were reviewed. Signalment, history, presenting clinicopathological data, surgical findings, complications, and short-term survival were recorded and compared between survivors and nonsurvivors. Signalment of the fecalith population was compared to a contemporaneous colic population. Clinical factors were assessed for association with outcome. RESULTS 64 females, 53 castrated males, and 31 intact males were included. Three equids presented twice. Miniature horses, ponies, and miniature donkeys/mules represented 48% (71/148) of fecalith population and full-sized breeds represented 52% (77/148). Miniature horses and ponies were overrepresented and equids ≤ 1 year of age were overrepresented in the fecalith population compared to the colic population. One hundred thirty-nine equids (92%) survived to discharge, 6% (9/148) were euthanized intraoperatively, and 2% (3/148) were euthanized during hospitalization. Nonsurvivors showed more severe colic signs on admission, tachycardia on admission, and hyperlipemia. Equids with postoperative colic (P = .01) and complications (P = .002) were less likely to survive. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Miniature horses and ponies were overrepresented compared to the colic population; however, full-sized breeds were also affected. Surgical treatment had an excellent short-term prognosis. Severe colic signs, tachycardia, hyperlipemia, postoperative colic, and surgical complications negatively affected short-term survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitja Miklavcic
- 1William R. Prichard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Julie E Dechant
- 2Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
| | - Isabelle Kilcoyne
- 2Department of Surgical and Radiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA
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Merlin A, Larcher N, Vallé-Casuso JC. The first report of triple anthelmintic resistance on a French Thoroughbred stud farm. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2024; 24:100528. [PMID: 38422764 PMCID: PMC10910056 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2024.100528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
This study assessed the anthelmintic resistance in strongylid nematodes against commonly used anthelmintic (AH) drugs in a French galloping racehorse stud farm from March to December 2023. Faecal egg count reduction tests (FECRTs) were conducted in three different groups of Thoroughbred yearlings (a group of 6 males, a group of 13 females and a group of 8 females and 3 males) following the new World Association for the Advancement of Veterinary Parasitology (WAAVP) guidelines. The efficacy of fenbendazole was tested in two groups once during the monitoring period (in March), the efficacy of ivermectin in 3 groups twice (in March-April and in November-December) and the efficacy of pyrantel in one group once (in May-June). For each FECRT, the 90% confidence interval of the percentage faecal egg count reduction was calculated using the hybrid Frequentist/Bayesian analysis method. The resistance in strongylids was observed to fenbendazole, pyrantel and ivermectin in all the groups in which these drugs were tested. The number of animals in each group was sufficient to reach ≥80% power for the resistance test. The results highlight the first case of triple AH resistance in strongylids in France. Further studies involving more farms and equids are required to assess the prevalence of AH resistance in France and refine recommendations for owners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Merlin
- Anses, Laboratory for Animal Health in Normandy, Physiopathology and Epidemiology of Equine Diseases Unit, 14430 Goustranville, France; Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France.
| | - Nicolas Larcher
- Anses, Laboratory for Animal Health in Normandy, Physiopathology and Epidemiology of Equine Diseases Unit, 14430 Goustranville, France; Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France
| | - José-Carlos Vallé-Casuso
- Anses, Laboratory for Animal Health in Normandy, Physiopathology and Epidemiology of Equine Diseases Unit, 14430 Goustranville, France; Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France
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10
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Worku A, Molla W, Kenubih A, Gizaw D, Muluneh A, Admassu B, Ejo M, Dagnaw GG, Bitew AB, Fentahun T, Getnet K, Dejene H, Berrie K, Ibrahim SM, Gessese AT, Fenta MD, Dessalegn B, Birhan M, Kinde MZ. Seroprevalence and associated risk factors of equine herpesvirus type-1/-4 in selected districts of Northwest Amhara, Ethiopia. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2024; 107:102155. [PMID: 38460360 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2024.102155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to estimate the prevalence, determine the distribution, and identify the epidemiological risk factors of EHV-1/-4 infections in selected districts of Northwest Amhara Region. 460 serum samples were collected from equines using multistage cluster sampling technique, and a competitive Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) was performed. Various risk factors for the occurrence of EHV-1/-4 were considered. Statistical analysis was performed using R version 4.3.1. 65.9% (303) equids were tested positive for antibodies against EHV-1/-4. Based on district, the highest prevalence was recorded in Wogera (86.1%), while the lowest was in Debark (47.4%). There was a significant difference (p <0.05; 95% CI: 1.1067993-3.682843) in the prevalence of EHV-1/-4 among species and donkeys are 2.019 times more likely to get an EHV infection than horses. The prevalence of EHV-1/-4 was highest in equids with the age of 3-8 years and lowest in < 3 years, and the difference was statistically significant (p <0.05; 95% CI: 1.9812042-6.771820). Statistically significant variation (p <0.05; 95% CI: 1.1173822-2.684013) was also observed between sex of equids in which females had 1.73 times higher chance to get EHV infection than males. Higher prevalence was found in lactating equids (81.6%), followed by pregnant equids (74.6%), and dry equids (66.4%). Generally, this study indicated a high and wide distribution of EHV-1/-4 infection in the study area, which needs due attention. Devising strategies to prevent and minimize the spread and occurrence of the infection is crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anmut Worku
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box 196, Ethiopia
| | - Wassie Molla
- Department of Veterinary Epidemiology and public health, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box 196, Ethiopia
| | - Ambaye Kenubih
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box 196, Ethiopia
| | - Daniel Gizaw
- Animal Health Institute (AHI), Ministry of Livestock and Fishery, P. O. Box 04, Sebeta, Ethiopia
| | - Ayelech Muluneh
- Animal Health Institute (AHI), Ministry of Livestock and Fishery, P. O. Box 04, Sebeta, Ethiopia
| | - Bemrew Admassu
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box 196, Ethiopia
| | - Mebrat Ejo
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box 196, Ethiopia
| | - Gashaw Getaneh Dagnaw
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box 196, Ethiopia
| | - Abebe Belete Bitew
- Department of Veterinary Epidemiology and public health, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box 196, Ethiopia
| | - Tewodros Fentahun
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box 196, Ethiopia
| | - Kalkidan Getnet
- Department of Veterinary Epidemiology and public health, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box 196, Ethiopia
| | - Haileyesus Dejene
- Department of Veterinary Epidemiology and public health, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box 196, Ethiopia
| | - Kassahun Berrie
- Department of Veterinary Epidemiology and public health, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box 196, Ethiopia
| | - Saddam Mohammed Ibrahim
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box 196, Ethiopia
| | - Abebe Tesfaye Gessese
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box 196, Ethiopia
| | - Melkie Dagnaw Fenta
- Department of Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar, P. O. Box 196, Ethiopia
| | - Bereket Dessalegn
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box 196, Ethiopia
| | - Mastewal Birhan
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box 196, Ethiopia
| | - Mebrie Zemene Kinde
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box 196, Ethiopia.
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Hooser SB. Investigative and Diagnostic Toxicology and Feed-Related Outbreaks. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract 2024; 40:1-10. [PMID: 38151405 DOI: 10.1016/j.cveq.2023.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Incidences of feed contamination are rare even though enormous amounts of animal feed are manufactured. However, there are still some cases of feed-related illness in horses. Veterinarians play a crucial role in recognizing and mitigating these events and in assessing the severity of risks. Due to these risks, proper reporting and consultation with government and state agencies are crucial. Accurate diagnosis and identification of the source of poisoning are promising when a thorough case workup is performed and agencies such as veterinary diagnostic laboratories and the US Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine are used effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen B Hooser
- Toxicology Section, Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, 406 South University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA.
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Otgonsuren D, Amgalanbaatar T, Narantsatsral S, Enkhtaivan B, Munkhgerel D, Zoljargal M, Davkharbayar B, Myagmarsuren P, Battur B, Battsetseg B, Sivakumar T, Yokoyama N. Epidemiology and genetic diversity of Theileria equi and Babesia caballi in Mongolian horses. Infect Genet Evol 2024; 119:105571. [PMID: 38365128 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2024.105571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Equine piroplasmosis is a tick-borne disease caused by Theileria equi and Babesia caballi in horses. Because of its impact on horse industry, control of this disease is crucial for endemic countries. The control of equine piroplasmosis may be influenced by the genotypic diversity of T. equi and B. caballi. Mongolia, a country with a thriving livestock industry, is endemic for T. equi and B. caballi. However, nationwide epidemiological surveys have not been conducted to determine the current status of infections and genetic diversity of these two parasite species. Therefore, the objective of this research was to investigate the infection rates and genotypes of T. equi and B. caballi in horses across Mongolia. Blood samples were collected from 1353 horses in 15 of Mongolia's 21 provinces, and their DNAs were analyzed with T. equi- and B. caballi-specific PCR assays. Additionally, blood smears were prepared from 251 horses, stained with Giemsa, and examined under a light microscope to identify T. equi and B. caballi. The microscopy revealed that 30 (11.9%) and 4 (1.6%) of the 251 horses were positive for T. equi and B. caballi, respectively. By contrast, PCR assays detected the T. equi and B. caballi in 1058 (78.2%) and 62 (4.6%) horses, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis of 18S rRNA sequences from 42 randomly selected T. equi-positive DNA samples detected the genotypes A and E. On the other hand, the rap-1 sequences from 19 randomly selected B. caballi-positive DNA samples occurred in clades representing the genotypes A and B1, as well as in a distinct clade closely related to the genotype A. Our findings confirm the widespread occurrence of T. equi and B. caballi infections in Mongolian horses, highlighting the need for a comprehensive control approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davaajav Otgonsuren
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan; Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Tovuu Amgalanbaatar
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Sandagdorj Narantsatsral
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Batsaikhan Enkhtaivan
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Dalantai Munkhgerel
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Myagmar Zoljargal
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Batbold Davkharbayar
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Punsantsogvoo Myagmarsuren
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Banzrach Battur
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia; Graduate School, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Badgar Battsetseg
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Mongolian University of Life Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Thillaiampalam Sivakumar
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Naoaki Yokoyama
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan; WOAH Reference Laboratories for Bovine Babesiosis and Equine Piroplasmosis, National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan.
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13
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Boushaki D, Adel A, Dia ML, Madani H, Geerts M, Bebronne N, Brihoum BA, Kechemir Issad N, Büscher P. A Survey on Trypanosoma evansi (Kinetoplastida, Trypanosomatidae) Infection in Domestic Animals in a Surra Endemic Area of Southern Algeria. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2024; 24:219-225. [PMID: 38416509 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2023.0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Trypanosoma (T.) evansi infection is endemic in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedaries) of southern Algeria. Materials and Methods: In order to assess the presence of T. evansi in other domestic animals living together with dromedary camels, a study was conducted in the wilayate of Béchar, El Bayadh, Ouargla and Tamanrasset, between 2015 and 2017. Authorisation to conduct the survey was obtained from the Direction des Services Vétérinaires (DSV, Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Fisheries). A total of 190 animals were sampled, including 42 cattle (Bos taurus), 11 dogs (Canis familiaris), 44 horses (Equus caballus), 3 donkeys (Equus asinus) and 1 mule, 49 goats (Capra hircus) and 40 sheep (Ovis aries). These animals were examined by parasitological (Giemsa stained thin smear, GST), serological (card agglutination test for trypanosomosis (CATT/T. evansi), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay/Variant Surface Glycoprotein/Rode Trypanozoon antigen type 1.2 [ELISA/VSG RoTat 1.2], immune trypanolysis [TL]) and molecular tests (T. evansi type A specific RoTat 1.2 PCR). Results and Conclusions: The CATT/T. evansi was positive in 10/42 cattle, 0/11 dogs, 2/48 equids, 27/49 goats and 15/40 sheep. On the other hand, 20/38 cattle, 1/9 dogs, 21/42 equids, 17/44 goats and 31/39 sheep were positive in ELISA/VSG RoTat 1.2. However, no single animal was positive in TL. In addition, the T. evansi parasite could not be demonstrated by either GST or RoTat 1.2 PCR in any of the examined animals. This may suggest cross-reactions of CATT/T. evansi and ELISA/VSG RoTat 1.2 with other pathogenic or commensal trypanosome species such as T. vivax or other parasites. Based on these data, in particular taking into account the high specificity of the TL for T. evansi type A, this study does not support the hypothesis that T. evansi circulates in the studied domestic animal species and that they would act as reservoirs for the parasite that causes trypanosomosis in dromedary camels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Djamila Boushaki
- Inspection Vétérinaire de la Wilaya d'Alger, Direction des Services Agricoles, Ministère de l'Agriculture et du Développement Rural, Alger, Algeria
- Ecole Nationale Supérieure Vétérinaire, Alger, Algeria
| | - Amel Adel
- Institute of Veterinary Sciences, University Saad Dahlab Blida 1, Blida, Algeria
| | | | - Hafsa Madani
- Laboratoire Central Vétérinaire, Institut National de la Médecine Vétérinaire, Alger, Algeria
| | - Manon Geerts
- Unit of Diagnostic Parasitology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Bebronne
- Unit of Diagnostic Parasitology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Brahim A Brihoum
- Laboratoire Vétérinaire Régional de Laghouat, Institut National de la Médecine Vétérinaire, Laghouat, Algeria
| | - Nadia Kechemir Issad
- Faculté des sciences Biologiques, Université des Sciences et Technologies Houari Boumediène, Alger, Algeria
| | - Philippe Büscher
- Unit of Diagnostic Parasitology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
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14
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Equine disease surveillance: quarterly update. Vet Rec 2024; 194:e4068. [PMID: 38488594 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.4068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
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15
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Mai Z, Fu H, Miao R, Lu C, Zhang X, Yuan Z, Ji P, Hua Y, Wang C, Ma Y, Deng H, Wei Y. Serological investigation and isolation of Salmonella abortus equi in horses in Xinjiang. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:103. [PMID: 38491518 PMCID: PMC10941388 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-03955-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica serovar abortus equi (S. abortus equi) is one of the main pathogens that causes abortion in pregnant horses and donkeys, which was highly infectious and greatly restricts the healthy development of the horse industry. OBJECTIVES In order to investigate the prevalence and biological characteristics of S. abortus equi in different regions and breeds of horses in Xinjiang. METHODS This study conducted ELISA detection of S. abortus equi antibodies on serum samples of 971 horses collected from three large-scale horse farms and five free-range horse farms in Yili Prefecture and Bayingol Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture of Xinjiang from 2020 to 2023. On this basis, bacterial isolation, culture, identification, and drug sensitivity tests were conducted on 42 samples of aborted foal tissues and 23 mare vaginal swabs. RESULTS The results showed that the positive rate of S. abortus equi antibody was as high as 20.91% in 971 horse serum samples. Among them, the positive rate in the Ili region (29.09%) was significantly higher than that in the Bayingole region (11.24%), and the positive rate in mares (22.45%) was higher than that in stallions (14.05%). In terms of horse breeds, the positive rates of self-propagating thoroughbred horses, half-bred horses, Ili horses and Yanqi horses were 43.22%, 28.81%, 14.72% and 11.24% respectively. In addition, S. abortus equi was more susceptible to juvenile and elderly horses, with positive rates of 70.00%and 41.86%, respectively, both of which were significantly higher than young (10.97%) and adult (19.79%) horses. Further, 9 strains of S. abortus equi were obtained through bacterial isolation, culture and identification, which were resistant to five antibiotics (Clarithromycin, Clindamycin, penicillin, Sulfamethoxazole and Rifampicin), and sensitive to 13 antimicrobial agents (Amoxicillin, Ciprofloxacin and Gentamicin, et al.). CONCLUSION There was a high infection rate of S. abortus equi in Ili Prefecture and self-propagating thoroughbred horses, and juvenile or old mares were more susceptible, which will provide scientific basis for the prevention of S. abortus equi infection in different regions and breeds of horses in Xinjiang.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanhai Mai
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, China
| | - Han Fu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, China
| | - Ronghao Miao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, China
| | - Chong Lu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, China
| | - Xiaosong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ziwen Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Peng Ji
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yongli Hua
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Station of Bazhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Korla, Korla, China
| | - Yuhui Ma
- Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine Development Center of Zhaosu County, Zhaosu, China
| | - Haifeng Deng
- Zhaosu Horse Farm, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, Zhaosu, China
| | - Yanming Wei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China.
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16
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Olivo G, Zakia LS, Ribeiro MG, da Cunha MDLRDS, Riboli DFM, Mello PL, Teixeira NB, de Araújo CET, Oliveira-Filho JP, Borges AS. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus spp. investigation in hospitalized horses and contacting personnel in a teaching veterinary hospital. J Equine Vet Sci 2024; 134:105031. [PMID: 38336267 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2024.105031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Staphylococci are well-known opportunistic pathogens associated with suppurative diseases in humans and animals. Antimicrobial resistance is an emergent threat to humans and animals worldwide. This study investigated the prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus spp. (MRS) in hospitalized horses and contacting personnel (veterinarians and staff), and assessed possible interspecies transmission in a teaching veterinary hospital. Nasal swabs from horses (n = 131) and humans (n = 35) were collected. The microorganisms were identified by traditional biochemical tests and genotypic methods, i.e., PCR, internal transcript spacer PCR (ITS-PCR), and gene sequencing. Staphylococcal species were isolated in 18% (23/131) of the horses, of which 8% (11/131) were S. hyicus, 4 % (5/131) were S. aureus, 4% (5/131) were S. pseudintermedius, and 2% (2/131) were S. schleiferi subsp. coagulans. The mecA gene was detected in an S. pseudintermedius isolate. Staphylococcus spp. was isolated in 40% (14/35) of the human samples, all of which were S. aureus. In four samples of S. aureus, the clonal profile ST398 was identified; among them, a clonal similarity of 98.1% was observed between a horse and a contacting human. This finding supports the need for biosecurity measures to avoid the spread of multidrug-resistant staphylococci in humans and horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovane Olivo
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science, Sao Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Professor Doctor Walter Mauricio Correa Street, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, 18618-681, Brazil
| | - Luiza Stachewski Zakia
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science, Sao Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Professor Doctor Walter Mauricio Correa Street, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, 18618-681, Brazil.
| | - Márcio Garcia Ribeiro
- Department of Animal Production and Preventive Medicine, Sao Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Professor Doctor Walter Mauricio Correa Street, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, 18618-681, Brazil
| | - Maria de Lourdes Ribeiro de Souza da Cunha
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Sao Paulo State University (Unesp), Institute of Biosciences, 250 Professor Doctor Antônio Celso Wagner Zanin Street, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Danilo Flávio Morais Riboli
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Sao Paulo State University (Unesp), Institute of Biosciences, 250 Professor Doctor Antônio Celso Wagner Zanin Street, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Priscila Luiza Mello
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Sao Paulo State University (Unesp), Institute of Biosciences, 250 Professor Doctor Antônio Celso Wagner Zanin Street, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nathalia Bibiana Teixeira
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Sao Paulo State University (Unesp), Institute of Biosciences, 250 Professor Doctor Antônio Celso Wagner Zanin Street, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - César Erineudo Tavares de Araújo
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science, Sao Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Professor Doctor Walter Mauricio Correa Street, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, 18618-681, Brazil
| | - José Paes Oliveira-Filho
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science, Sao Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Professor Doctor Walter Mauricio Correa Street, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, 18618-681, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Secorun Borges
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Science, Sao Paulo State University (Unesp), School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Professor Doctor Walter Mauricio Correa Street, Botucatu, Sao Paulo, 18618-681, Brazil
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Potter SJ, Erdody ML, Bamford NJ, Knowles EJ, Menzies-Gow N, Morrison PK, Argo CM, McIntosh BJ, Kaufman K, Harris PA, Bailey SR. Development of a body condition index to estimate adiposity in ponies and horses from morphometric measurements. Equine Vet J 2024; 56:299-308. [PMID: 37537987 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a high prevalence of obesity in ponies and pleasure horses. This may be associated with equine metabolic syndrome and an increased risk of laminitis. Body condition scoring (BCS) systems are widely used but are subjective and not very sensitive. OBJECTIVES To derive a body condition index (BCI), based on objective morphometric measurements, that correlates with % body fat. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. METHODS Morphometric measurements were obtained from 21 ponies and horses in obese and moderate body condition. Percentage body fat was determined using the deuterium dilution method and the BCI was derived to give the optimal correlation with body fat, applying appropriate weightings. The index was then validated by assessing inter-observer variation and correlation with % body fat in a separate population of Welsh ponies; and finally, the correlation between BCI and BCS was evaluated in larger populations from studies undertaken in Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States. RESULTS The BCI correlated well with adiposity in the ponies and horses, giving a Pearson r value of 0.74 (P < 0.001); however, it was found to slightly overestimate the % body fat in leaner animals and underestimate in more obese animals. In field studies, the correlation between BCI and BCS varied particularly in Shetlands and miniature ponies, presumably due to differences in body shape. MAIN LIMITATIONS Further work may be required to adapt the BCI to a method that is more applicable for Shetlands and miniature ponies. CONCLUSIONS This BCI was able to provide an index of adiposity which compared favourably with condition scoring in terms of accuracy of estimating adiposity; and was more consistent and repeatable when used by inexperienced assessors. Therefore, this may be a useful tool for assessing adiposity; and may be more sensitive than condition scoring for tracking weight gain or weight loss in individual animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J Potter
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Madison L Erdody
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicholas J Bamford
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Katelyn Kaufman
- Virginia Polytechnic and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Patricia A Harris
- Equine Studies Group, Waltham Petcare Science Institute, Leicestershire, UK
| | - Simon R Bailey
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Mohammad-Naseri A, Shokrani H, Rahmani-Shahraki A. Equine Piroplasmosis in Asymptomatic Horses of Western Iran: Comparison of Microscopic Examination and Multiplex PCR. Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:813-818. [PMID: 38424400 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00804-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Piroplasmosis is responsible for anemia, fever, loss of physical activity and even death in equines. In epidemiological studies, accurate diagnostic tests are essential for detecting asymptomatic carriers. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of infection in asymptomatic horses from Lorestan province, western Iran by developing a multiplex PCR. METHODS AND RESULTS Blood samples were examined by microscopy and multiplex PCR targeting the SSU rRNA gene of Theileria equi and Babesia caballi. Out of the total of 165 horses, 19 (11.51%) and 31 (18.78%) cases were positive for piroplasms by microscopy and PCR, respectively. The detection rates of both genera were significantly higher in multiplex PCR compared to microscopy (p < 0.0001). Compared with multiplex PCR, the sensitivities of microscopy for the detection of Babesia were only 28.5%. The prevalence of T. equi infection was significantly higher in summer (p = 0.035). The prevalence of B. caballi was significantly higher in males (p = 0.038). CONCLUSION Findings indicate that the multiplex PCR described here is a sensitive technique for the detection of piroplasm DNA in carriers. Furthermore, asymptomatic carriers must be considered as an important source of infection for equids living in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armin Mohammad-Naseri
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Shokrani
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran.
| | - Alireza Rahmani-Shahraki
- Department of Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran
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19
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Shoemaker S, Wang Y, Sellon D, Gold J, Fisher A, Bagshaw J, Leguillette R, Sanz M, Bayly W. Prevalence and severity of exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage in 2-year-old Thoroughbred racehorses and its relationship to performance. J Vet Intern Med 2024; 38:1167-1176. [PMID: 38363079 PMCID: PMC10937470 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.17003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little has been reported regarding the prevalence and severity of exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH) in 2-year-old Thoroughbred racehorses. OBJECTIVES Evaluate EIPH prevalence and severity and its association with performance, speed index, furosemide administration, race distance, and track surface. ANIMALS A total of 830 2-year-old Thoroughbreds. METHODS Prospective blinded observational study. Videoendoscopy was performed 30 to 60 minutes postrace at 15 American racetracks. Three blinded observers independently assigned an EIPH grade (0-4) to each video, and prevalence and severity of EIPH were determined. Relationships of EIPH grade to performance, speed index, race distance, track surface, and prerace administration of furosemide were evaluated using Pearson's chi-squared test for categorical variables and analysis of variance (ANOVA) for numerical variables. Multivariable logistic regression assessed relationships between EIPH prevalence and severity, respectively, and the aforementioned independent variables. A P < .05 was considered significant. RESULTS A total of 1071 tracheoendoscopies were recorded. The EIPH prevalence was 74% and for EIPH grade ≥3 was 8%. Speed index (P = .02) and finishing place (P = .004) were lower with EIPH ≥3. The EIPH prevalence and severity were lower at 2 tracks where postrace tracheoendoscopy was mandatory rather than voluntary (P < .001). Probability of observing EIPH was negatively associated with speed index (P = .01) at tracks where postrace tracheoendoscopy was mandatory. Prerace furosemide administration decreased the probability of EIPH occurrence (P = .007) and severity (P = .01) where study participation was voluntary. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Prevalence and severity of EIPH in 2-year-old racehorses were consistent with that of older racehorses. An EIPH grade ≥3 was associated with decreased performance. Prerace furosemide administration was associated with a decreased likelihood, but not severity, of EIPH at most tracks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sierra Shoemaker
- Department of Veterinary Clinical SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWashingtonUSA
| | - Yuan Wang
- Center for Interdisciplinary Statistical Education and ResearchWashington State UniversityPullmanWashingtonUSA
| | - Debra Sellon
- Department of Veterinary Clinical SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWashingtonUSA
| | - Jenifer Gold
- Department of Veterinary Clinical SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWashingtonUSA
| | - Allison Fisher
- Center for Interdisciplinary Statistical Education and ResearchWashington State UniversityPullmanWashingtonUSA
| | - Julia Bagshaw
- Department of Veterinary Clinical SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWashingtonUSA
| | - Renaud Leguillette
- Department of Veterinary Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryAlbertaCanada
| | - Macarena Sanz
- Department of Veterinary Clinical SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWashingtonUSA
| | - Warwick Bayly
- Department of Veterinary Clinical SciencesWashington State UniversityPullmanWashingtonUSA
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20
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Ellerbrock M, Krohn J, Büttner K, Wehrend A. Dystocia frequency and causes in horses with pregnancy disorders or a history of dystocia: A prospective study. Reprod Domest Anim 2024; 59:e14541. [PMID: 38426354 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Dystocia typically presents a life-threatening condition for both the mare and the foal. This prospective long-term study aimed to ascertain whether mares with prior pregnancy disorders or a history of dystocia were at a higher risk of experiencing subsequent dystocia in comparison to those without such medical antecedents. To achieve this goal, the authors analysed 207 parturitions and 164 mares over a 10-year period. Of these, 57 were associated with pregnancy disorders or prior dystocia (Group 1), while 150 parturitions followed uneventful pregnancies in mares that had not yet experienced dystocia (Group 2). Mares in Group 1 were significantly more likely to develop dystocia than those in Group 2 (p = .0180; odds ratio = 2.98). Foetal causes of dystocia were more prevalent than maternal causes (p < .0389). Maternal mortality stood at 0.5%, and neonatal mortality reached 1.9%. The results demonstrate that mares are at significantly higher risk of developing dystocia after experiencing pregnancy disorders or parturition complications during previous pregnancies, emphasizing the need for systematic birth monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Ellerbrock
- Veterinary Clinic for Reproductive Medicine and Neonatology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Judith Krohn
- Veterinary Clinic for Reproductive Medicine and Neonatology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Kathrin Büttner
- Unit of Biomathematics and Data Processing, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus-Liebig-Universität-Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Axel Wehrend
- Veterinary Clinic for Reproductive Medicine and Neonatology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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21
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Grönthal TSC, Lehto AK, Aarnio SS, Eskola EK, Aimo-Koivisto EM, Karlsson T, Koskinen HI, Barkoff AM, He Q, Lienemann T, Rimhanen-Finne R, Mykkänen A. Pastern dermatitis outbreak associated with toxigenic and non-toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae and non-toxigenic Corynebacterium ulcerans at a horse stable in Finland, 2021. Zoonoses Public Health 2024; 71:127-135. [PMID: 37926867 DOI: 10.1111/zph.13090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Corynebacterium diphtheriae and Corynebacterium ulcerans, when producing toxin, are the cause of diphtheria, a potentially life-threatening illness in humans. Horses (Equus ferus caballus) are known to be susceptible to infection that may manifest clinically on rare occasions. In late 2021 and early 2022, specimens from five horses suffering from pastern dermatitis were cultured at the Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Finland. C. diphtheriae and/or C. ulcerans were recovered from all of these. This study aimed to (1) analyse the bacterial isolates and (2) describe the outbreak and identify possible sources of the infection and infection routes in the stable. METHODS AND RESULTS Susceptibility testing, PCR for the tox gene, and Elek test for toxin production in PCR-positive isolates were performed. Whole genome sequencing was also conducted to achieve high-resolution strain typing. An epidemiological survey was done by means of a semi-structured interview of horses' caretaker, and contact tracing was done among people at the stable. Two tox gene-positive, toxin-producing C. diphtheriae belonged to sequence type (ST) 822. Other C. diphtheriae (n = 2, ST828) and C. ulcerans (n = 2, ST325 and ST838) isolates did not carry the tox gene. The epidemiological investigation explored numerous possible routes of transmission, but the definite source of infection was not identified. All established human contacts tested negative for diphtheriae. All horses recovered after antimicrobial treatment. CONCLUSIONS Our study shows that C. diphtheriae and C. ulcerans may readily spread among horses at the same stable and complicate pastern dermatitis infections. These potentially zoonotic bacteria can cause outbreaks even in a country with a very low prevalence. Caretakers should be encouraged to wear gloves and practice good hand hygiene when treating infected skin lesions in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Sven Christer Grönthal
- Animal Health Diagnostics Unit, Finnish Food Authority, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anna Karoliina Lehto
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sanna Sofia Aarnio
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eva Katarina Eskola
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Elina Marjaana Aimo-Koivisto
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Teemu Karlsson
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Heli Irmeli Koskinen
- Infectious Disease Control and Vaccinations Unit, Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute of Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Alex-Mikael Barkoff
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Center for Infections and Immunity, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Qiushui He
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Center for Infections and Immunity, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Taru Lienemann
- Animal Health Diagnostics Unit, Finnish Food Authority, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ruska Rimhanen-Finne
- Infectious Disease Control and Vaccinations Unit, Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute of Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anna Mykkänen
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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22
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Al-Ansari AS, Golding E, Walshe N, Mooney CT, Duggan V. Obesity and obesity-associated metabolic disease conditions in Connemara ponies in Ireland. Equine Vet J 2024; 56:273-280. [PMID: 37985219 DOI: 10.1111/evj.14029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Equine obesity combined with insulin dysregulation (ID) is a major risk factor associated with laminitis. Some pony breeds appear to be at increased risk. However, little is known regarding the prevalence of obesity or hyperinsulinaemia as evidence of ID in Irish ponies. OBJECTIVE To investigate the prevalence of obesity and associated endocrine/metabolic disease conditions in Connemara ponies and to determine if hyperinsulinaemia in these ponies could be predicted by morphometric or metabolic markers. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional study. METHODS The study population included registered Connemara ponies recruited through public and veterinary social media posts. Ponies underwent a physical examination and information on their management and clinical history was obtained via owner questionnaire. The body condition score (BCS) was measured using the Henneke system; cresty neck score (CNS) and regionalised adiposity were also assessed. Hyperinsulinaemia was confirmed by measuring serum basal insulin concentration (BIC) or insulin concentration after an oral sugar test (OST). Blood glucose and triglyceride concentrations were measured. Characteristics of hyperinsulinaemic and insulin-sensitive ponies were compared by logistic regression. RESULTS Two hundred ponies were included; 59 ponies (29.5%) had a BCS ≥7, 58 (29.0%) had a CNS ≥2.5 and 135 (67.5%) had regionalised adiposity; 137 (68.5%) ponies had at least one of these abnormalities. Owner-reported history or clinical evidence of chronic laminitis was found in 92 ponies (46.0%). Hyperinsulinaemia was confirmed in 32 ponies (16.0%), including 23 of 91 (25.3%) detected by OST and 9 of 109 (8.3%) by BIC. Hypertriglyceridaemia was observed in 12 of 198 ponies (6.1%) ponies and hyperglycaemia in 11 of 197 ponies (5.6%) ponies. The odds of hyperinsulinaemia increased by a factor of 6.53 (95% confidence interval: 2.95, 15.21) when BCS was ≥7. MAIN LIMITATIONS The OST was not performed in all ponies. CONCLUSIONS Increased adiposity, laminitis and metabolic derangements are prevalent in this native Irish pony breed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emma Golding
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Nicola Walshe
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Carmel T Mooney
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Vivienne Duggan
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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23
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Rodzyń I, Karpińska K, Bis-Wencel H, Wlazło Ł, Ossowski M, Strzelec K, Jaguszewski S, Nowakowicz-Dębek B. Exposure to chemical pollutants and biological aerosol in indoor facilities for recreational and sport horses. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:78. [PMID: 38413934 PMCID: PMC10900765 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-03930-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the increasing prevalence of equine non-infectious respiratory disease, the air contamination in equine housing (Stables A-C) and training facilities (indoor riding arenas A - C) was investigated. The aim of the study was to monitor gaseous pollutants, bioaerosols, and dust concentrations at three different sites (stables and riding halls), where different floor materials were used in the riding halls. MATERIALS AND METHODS Air quality was monitored in housing for horses and in riding halls in terms of dust concentration, the presence of gaseous chemical pollutants, and concentrations of biological aerosol. Statistical analysis was performed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The levels obtained were compared with acceptable limits. RESULTS Among the gaseous pollutants identified, the highest concentration was obtained for ammonia in stables B and C (16.37 and 22.39 mg/m3, respectively). Standards for total dust were exceeded in stables B and C and in riding halls B and C. The highest numbers of bacteria and fungi were recorded in stables A and C and in riding hall B. Ulocladium sp. had the highest percentage share among the moulds identified. CONCLUSIONS The results confirm that the wrong choice of bedding in the stable and indoor riding arenas may contribute, even in short training periods, to equine non-infectious respiratory disease (equine asthma). Bioaerosol suspended in the air together with released gaseous pollutants can exacerbate this phenomenon, which even in the case of short training periods can lead to equine asthma of varying degrees of severity. For this reason, the choice of floor material in riding halls should be treated as a priority, as the wrong decision can shorten the period during which the horse can be used for recreational purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Rodzyń
- Department of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Hazards, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Bioeconomy, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 13, Lublin, 20-950, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Karpińska
- Department of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Hazards, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Bioeconomy, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 13, Lublin, 20-950, Poland.
| | - Hanna Bis-Wencel
- Department of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Hazards, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Bioeconomy, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 13, Lublin, 20-950, Poland
| | - Łukasz Wlazło
- Department of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Hazards, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Bioeconomy, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 13, Lublin, 20-950, Poland
| | - Mateusz Ossowski
- Department of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Hazards, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Bioeconomy, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 13, Lublin, 20-950, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Strzelec
- Department of Horse Breeding and Use, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Bioeconomy, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 13, 20‑950, Lublin, Poland
| | - Sebastian Jaguszewski
- Student Scientific Association of Occupational and Environmental Hazards, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Bioeconomy, University of Life Science in Lublin, Akademicka 13, 20‑950, Lublin, Poland
| | - Bożena Nowakowicz-Dębek
- Department of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Hazards, Faculty of Animal Sciences and Bioeconomy, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 13, Lublin, 20-950, Poland
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24
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Tong P, Yang E, Liu B, Tian S, Suo Y, Pan J, Dang Y, Palidan N, Jia C, Kuang L, Xie J. Identification of neuropathogenic Varicellovirus equidalpha1 as a potential cause of respiratory disease outbreaks among horses in North Xinjiang, China, from 2021-2023. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:77. [PMID: 38413936 PMCID: PMC10898184 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-03925-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Varicellovirus equidalpha1 (formerly Equid alphaherpesvirus 1, EqAHV-1) is among the most important viruses responsible for respiratory disease outbreaks among horses throughout the world. No reports to date have detailed the association between EqAHV-1 and respiratory disease among horses in China. This study described one such outbreak among a population of horses in north Xinjiang that occurred from April 2021 - May 2023. RESULTS qPCR revealed that EqAHV-1 was detectable in all samples and this virus was identified as a possible source of respiratory disease, although a limited subset of these samples were also positive for EqAHV-2, EqAHV-4, and EqAHV-5. In total, three EqAHV-1 strains responsible for causing respiratory illness in horses were isolated successfully, and full-length ORF33 sequence comparisonsand phylogenetic analyses indicated that these isolates may have originated from EqAHV-1 strains detected in Yili horse abortions. ORF30 sequence data additionally suggested that these strains were neuropathic, as evidenced by the presence of a guanine residue at nucleotide position 2254 corresponding to the aspartic acid present at position 752 in the DNA polymerase encoded by this virus. CONCLUSION This study is the first report of an outbreak of respiratory disease among horses in China caused by EqAHV-1. ORF30 sequence characterization revealed that these EqAHV-1 strains harbored a neuropathogenic genotype. Given the detection of this virus in horses suffering from respiratory disease, concern is warranted with respect to this neuropathogenic EqAHV-1 outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panpan Tong
- Laboratory of Animal Etiology and Epidemiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, 830052, China
| | - Enhui Yang
- Laboratory of Animal Etiology and Epidemiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, 830052, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Hengxing Equestrian Club, Changji, 831100, China
| | - Shuyao Tian
- Laboratory of Animal Etiology and Epidemiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, 830052, China
| | - Youtu Suo
- Zhaosu Horse Barn in Yili, Zhaosu, 835602, China
| | - JuanJuan Pan
- Laboratory of Animal Etiology and Epidemiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, 830052, China
| | - Yueyi Dang
- Laboratory of Animal Etiology and Epidemiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, 830052, China
| | - Nuerlan Palidan
- Vocational Technical School of Zhaosu, Zhaosu, 835600, China
| | - Chenyang Jia
- Xinjiang Nucleic Acid Testing Center, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830011, China
| | - Ling Kuang
- Laboratory of Animal Etiology and Epidemiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, 830052, China
| | - Jinxin Xie
- Laboratory of Animal Etiology and Epidemiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, 830052, China.
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25
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Hamad MH, Islam SI, Jitsamai W, Chinkangsadarn T, Naraporn D, Ouisuwan S, Taweethavonsawat P. Metabarcoding study to reveal the structural community of strongylid nematodes in domesticated horses in Thailand. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:70. [PMID: 38395874 PMCID: PMC10893705 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-03934-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mixed strongylid infections significantly impact equine health and performance. Traditional microscopy-based methods exhibit limitations in accurately identifying strongylid species. Nemabiome deep amplicon sequencing approach previously succeeded in describing the strongylid communities in livestock including equids. However, there are no available studies that describe the structural communities of strongylid parasites in horses in Thailand. Therefore, this study was undertaken encompassing the ITS-2 rDNA metabarcoding assay to characterize strongylid species within horse fecal samples collected from a cohort of yearlings at the largest domesticated stud farm in Thailand. In addition, to investigate the capability of ITS-2 rDNA in assessing the phylogenetic relationships among the identified strongylid species. RESULTS The study identified 14 strongylid species in the examined equine populations, each with varying prevalence. Notably, Cylicocyclus nassatus and Cylicostephanus longibursatus were identified as the predominant species, with Strongylus spp. conspicuously absent. The phylogenetic analysis of 207 amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) displayed a complex relationship among the investigated cyathostomin species, with some species are positioned across multiple clades, demonstrating close associations with various species and genera. CONCLUSION The ITS-2 nemabiome sequencing technique provided a detailed picture of horse strongylid parasite species in the studied population. This establishes a foundation for future investigations into the resistance status of these parasites and enables efforts to mitigate their impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed H Hamad
- The International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology (VST), Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
- Infectious Diseases, Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44511, Egypt
- Parasitology Unit, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Sk Injamamul Islam
- The International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology (VST), Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
- Parasitology Unit, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Wanarit Jitsamai
- Department of Parasitology and Entomology, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Teerapol Chinkangsadarn
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Darm Naraporn
- Horse Farm and Laboratory Animal Breeding Center, Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, The Thai Red Cross Society, Hua-Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, 77110, Thailand
| | - Suraseha Ouisuwan
- Horse Farm and Laboratory Animal Breeding Center, Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, The Thai Red Cross Society, Hua-Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, 77110, Thailand
| | - Piyanan Taweethavonsawat
- Parasitology Unit, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
- Biomarkers in Animals Parasitology Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
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26
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Nocera FP, Capozzi L, Simone D, Pizzano F, Iovane V, Bianco A, Parisi A, De Martino L. Multi-locus sequence typing and in vitro antimicrobial resistance of equine Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus strains. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:215-224. [PMID: 37626228 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10165-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus (S. zooepidemicus) is one of the most important pathogens frequently associated with the main causes of equine infertility. In this study, we surveyed 22 strains of S. zooepidemicus collected during 2021 from cervico-uterine swabs of mares with endometritis. The genetic variability of the isolated strains was studied by multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) from whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data. The average length of reconstructed genomes was 2,088,286 bp (95% CI: 2,061,569 bp-2,114,967 bp), which was expected for S. zooepidemicus genomes. The assembled genomes were assigned to sequence types (STs) using the S. zooepidemicus scheme targeting seven loci (arcC, nrdE, proS, spi, tdk, tpi, yqiL) available in PubMLST database. MLST revealed a wide variability of STs with two (9.1%) novel STs identified in this study, precisely ST521 with two isolates and ST522 with one isolate. Furthermore, 4/22 (18.2%) isolates were assigned to ST92, 3/22 (13.6%) to ST205, 2/22 (9.1%) to ST475, and one strain (4.5%) for each of the following STs: ST10, ST30, ST39, ST49, ST101, ST132, ST147, ST314, ST369, ST467. Isolates were also tested for antimicrobial resistance using Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Resistance to amoxicillin-clavulanate, ampicillin, amikacin, gentamicin, streptomycin, enrofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim, tetracycline, oxytetracycline represented the most common resistance profile (13/22, 59.1%). No correlation between specific ST and antimicrobial resistance profile was found. Our study provides a comprehensive insight into the epidemiology, ST diversity and antimicrobial resistance profile of S. zooepidemicus strains, isolated in Italy, causing subfertility problems in mares.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Paola Nocera
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, 80137, Italy.
| | - Loredana Capozzi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale di Puglia e Basilicata, Contrada San Pietro Piturno, Putignano-Bari, 70017, Italy
| | - Domenico Simone
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale di Puglia e Basilicata, Contrada San Pietro Piturno, Putignano-Bari, 70017, Italy
| | - Francesca Pizzano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, 80137, Italy
| | - Valentina Iovane
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, 80055, Italy
| | - Angelica Bianco
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale di Puglia e Basilicata, Contrada San Pietro Piturno, Putignano-Bari, 70017, Italy
| | - Antonio Parisi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale di Puglia e Basilicata, Contrada San Pietro Piturno, Putignano-Bari, 70017, Italy
| | - Luisa De Martino
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, 80137, Italy
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27
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Uchida-Fujii E, Kuroda T, Niwa H, Kinoshita Y, Kano R, Tamura T, Makimura K, Ueno T. Bacterial and fungal isolates from 107 cases of ulcerative keratitis in Japanese Thoroughbred racehorses (2017-2021). J Equine Vet Sci 2024; 133:104990. [PMID: 38159581 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2023.104990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Infectious ulcerative keratitis is a common disease in racehorses. To improve treatment outcomes, this study aimed to assess the antimicrobial susceptibilities of bacterial and fungal isolates obtained from the cornea of Japanese Thoroughbred racehorses with equine infectious ulcerative keratitis. Bacterial and fungal cultures were performed for 166 corneal swabs from 107 cases. A disc diffusion test and minimum inhibitory concentration test were also performed to assess antimicrobial susceptibility of the bacterial and fungal isolates, respectively. Bacterial and/or fungal isolates were obtained from 85.0% (91/107) of the cases. Staphylococcus was primarily isolated from bacterial isolates, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Aerococcus, Streptococcus, Acinetobacter, and Pseudomonas. Aspergillus was primarily isolated from filamentous fungi, and Debaryomyces species was primarily identified in yeast-like fungi. Ofloxacin resistance was observed in 100% (12/12), 15.9% (7/44), and 25.0% (3/12) of MRSA, Staphylococcus, and Streptococcus isolates, respectively. The prevalence of quinolone-resistant Staphylococci and Streptococci has increased in the past two decades. All Aspergillus isolates were susceptible to voriconazole, whereas other filamentous fungi, including Fusarium, were less susceptible to voriconazole. Further studies are required to determine effective treatments for antimicrobial-resistant isolates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eri Uchida-Fujii
- Microbiology Division, Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association
| | - Taisuke Kuroda
- Clinical Veterinary Medicine Division, Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association.
| | - Hidekazu Niwa
- Microbiology Division, Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association
| | - Yuta Kinoshita
- Microbiology Division, Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association
| | - Rui Kano
- Teikyo University Institute of Medical Mycology (TIMM)
| | - Takashi Tamura
- Teikyo University Institute of Medical Mycology, Teikyo University
| | - Koichi Makimura
- Teikyo University Institute of Medical Mycology, Teikyo University
| | - Takanori Ueno
- Microbiology Division, Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association
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28
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Kaps M, Wenderoth J, Aurich J, Aurich C. Short communication: Retrospective analysis of obligatory testing results for Equine virus arteritis reveals a decrease of its seroprevalence in stallions used for artificial insemination. Prev Vet Med 2024; 223:106096. [PMID: 38150796 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.106096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Equine viral arteritis (EVA) can induce a persistent carrier state in stallions which then shed the virus via semen. About 30 years ago, obligatory EVA testing of stallions used for artificial insemination (AI) was implemented in the European Union. Information on the efficacy of these regulations on the prevalence of EVA in stallions are not yet available. Therefore, we retrospectively analyzed results of serological and virus antigen testing for EVA in sires of different age and breed referred to Vetmeduni Vienna for semen preservation or veterinary diagnostic procedures between 2001 and 2021. For analysis, stallions were grouped by age (1-5, 6-8, 9-12, >12 years) and breed. The EVA antibody titer was determined by serum neutralization test and semen was analyzed for EVA virus by PCR and/or virus isolation test. Of 308 stallions tested, 14.9% (n = 46) were EVA seropositive and in 12 stallions EVA virus was detected in semen (26% of seropositive stallions). The incidence of seropositive stallions decreased over time (P < 0.05, χ2 test). Differences in the seroprevalence of EVA antibodies existed among stallion age groups (P < 0.01, Fisher's test) with the highest percentage of seropositive stallions being > 12 years old (43.5%). The EVA antibody titer increased with age (P < 0.01, Kruskal-Wallis test), potentially reflecting repeated virus challenge. In conclusion, analysis of monitoring results revealed a decrease of EVA seroprevalence and virus shedding in a European sire population. As monitoring for EVA was the only measure implemented Europe-wide, testing might be a major contributor to this development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martim Kaps
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Jörn Wenderoth
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Jörg Aurich
- Gynecology, Obstetrics and Andrology, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Christine Aurich
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria.
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Gholmohammadi S, Malekifard F, Yakhchali M. Study on species distribution and seasonal dynamics of equine tick infestation in Ardabil province, northwest of Iran. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2024; 48:100987. [PMID: 38316512 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2024.100987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Ticks are important ectoparasites in equids, causing economic losses in animal husbandry in Iran and worldwide. This study was aimed to determine frequency and species diversity of hard ticks in equids in Ardabil province, during the four seasons in 2021. A total of 240 equids (187 horses, 53 donkeys) were randomly selected and examined. Ixodid ticks were collected from body surface of examined animals and identified. Of all examined equids, 32.5% horses, and 4.58% donkeys were infested with a total number of 412 ixodid ticks. Tick indices (tick number per animal) were 4.62. There was significant difference between prevalence and different age groups of infested animals. The highest prevalence of hard ticks was found in ≥3 years-old equids in the region. Of all examined ticks (412), three genera including Hyalomma spp., Rhipicephalus spp. .and Dermacentor spp. with four species. i.e. Hyalomma anatolicum (73.05%), H. marginatum (17.23%), Rhipicephalus bursa (7.76%) and Dermacentor marginatus (1.94%) were identified. Ixodid ticks' infestations occurred throughout the year with the highest prevalence in spring. The findings indicated that the equids had a high species diversity and ixodid tick infestation, necessitating additional research to identify any possible tick vectors for the hemoparasite transmission in equids of this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Gholmohammadi
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, West Azarbaijan, Iran
| | - Farnaz Malekifard
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, West Azarbaijan, Iran..
| | - Mohammad Yakhchali
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, West Azarbaijan, Iran
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Raza A, Ijaz M, Mehmood K, Ahmed A, Javed MU, Anwaar F, Rasheed H, Ghumman NZ. THEILERIA EQUI INFECTION IN WORKING HORSES OF PAKISTAN: EPIDEMIOLOGY, MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION, AND HEMATOBIOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS. J Parasitol 2024; 110:79-89. [PMID: 38421025 DOI: 10.1645/23-58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Theileria equi is 1 of the emerging and prevailing tick-borne hemoprotozoans adversely affecting the equids worldwide, including Pakistan. The current study aimed to investigate the prevalence and molecular characterization of T. equi in working horses (n = 194), the comparative efficacy of different diagnostic tests, associated risk factors, and hematobiochemical analysis. The blood samples of horses were subjected to microscopic examination, cELISA, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and the results revealed a prevalence of 9.79, 21.13, and 13.40%, respectively, for T. equi in working horses. The comparison of microscopy and cELISA results with PCR showed that cELISA had higher sensitivity (84.62%), but lower specificity (88.69%) and accuracy (88.14%) in comparison to microscopy (57.69, 97.62, and 92.27%). Molecular characterization of T. equi by phylogenetic analysis revealed a 61% resemblance of study isolates with each other OL662926, OL662925, and 82% similarity with isolate OL662924 while also showing homology with T. equi isolates of South Africa, South Korea, India, Pakistan, and Brazil. The risk factor analysis revealed a significant association (P < 0.05) of tick control status, previous tick history, tick infestation, house hygiene, deworming/vaccination, and the presence of other livestock species with T. equi infection in horses. The hematobiochemical profile revealed a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in red blood cells (RBCs), hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), white blood cells (WBCs), platelet (PLT), phosphorus, and an increase in lymphocytes, granulocytes, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), glucose, bilirubin, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine in T. equi-infected horses. The current study is the first comprehensive report for comparative evaluation of microscopy, cELISA, and PCR, assessment of epidemiological risk factors as well as hematobiochemical variations due to T. equi infection in Pakistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Raza
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Outfall Road, Lahore, Pakistan 54000
| | - Muhammad Ijaz
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Outfall Road, Lahore, Pakistan 54000
| | - Khalid Mehmood
- Department of Theriogenology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Outfall Road, Lahore, Pakistan 54000
| | - Arslan Ahmed
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Outfall Road, Lahore, Pakistan 54000
| | - Muhammad Umar Javed
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Outfall Road, Lahore, Pakistan 54000
| | - Farwa Anwaar
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Outfall Road, Lahore, Pakistan 54000
| | - Hamza Rasheed
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Outfall Road, Lahore, Pakistan 54000
| | - Nauman Zaheer Ghumman
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Outfall Road, Lahore, Pakistan 54000
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Faghihzadeh Gorji F, Sadr S, Sharifiyazdi H, Borji H. The first molecular isolation of Halicephalobus gingivalis from horses in Iran. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:527-531. [PMID: 37541991 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10188-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parasitic infections pose significant threats to humans' and animals' well-being worldwide. Among these parasites, Halicephalobus spp., a genus of nematodes, has gained attention due to its ability to cause severe infections in various animal species, including horses. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Halicephalobus spp., specifically focusing on Halicephalobus gingivalis in horses. MATERIALS AND METHODS In July 2022, a cross-sectional study was conducted in northern Iran to determine the prevalence of Halicephalobus spp. Using standard coprological techniques, 141 fecal samples from randomly selected horses were analyzed for GI helminth eggs. The Halicephalobus spp. eggs present in faeces were identified by molecular methods. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was used to amplify the partial 5' variable region (~ 390 base pairs) of 18 S DNA using SSUA_F and SSU22_R primers. Furthermore, the PCR products obtained were sequenced, and phylogenetic analysis was performed using available sequences from GenBank. RESULTS Microscopic examination of 141 fresh faecal samples revealed 5 fecal samples were infected with small ellipsoidal nematode eggs ranging between 40 and 50 × 50-60 μm. This study's PCR amplicons showed ~ 390 bp bands on 2.0% agarose gel. A partial sequence of 18 S DNA (363 bp) was obtained herein (GenBank accession no. OQ843456). CONCLUSION Overall, using molecular tools represents a significant step forward in diagnosing and managing the Halicephalobus gingivalis infections in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faezeh Faghihzadeh Gorji
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Soheil Sadr
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hassan Sharifiyazdi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hassan Borji
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.
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Halvarsson P, Grandi G, Hägglund S, Höglund J. Gastrointestinal parasite community structure in horses after the introduction of selective anthelmintic treatment strategies. Vet Parasitol 2024; 326:110111. [PMID: 38218052 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2023.110111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
A relatively new method to study the species richness and diversity of nematode parasites in grazing animals is to perform deep sequencing on composite samples containing a mixture of parasites. In this work, we compared species composition of strongyles in two groups of horses as a function of egg count and age, based on a DNA barcoding approach. Faecal egg counts and larval cultures were obtained from nearly 300 horses, i.e., domestic horses (n = 167) and trotters (n = 130) sampled nationwide. The second internal transcribed spacer region (ITS2) of strongyle nematodes in the larval cultures was first amplified using barcoded universal primers and then sequenced on the PacBio platform. Subsequently, bioinformatic sequence analysis was performed using SCATA to assign operational taxonomic units (OTU). Finally, species occurrence and composition were assessed using R. ITS2 sequences were found in the majority (89%) of larval samples. Sequencing yielded an average of 140 (26 to 503) reads per sample. The OTUs were assigned to 28 different taxa, of which all but three could be identified as species. The average relative abundance of the seven most abundant species (all Cyathostominae) accounted for 87% of the combined data set. The three species with the highest prevalence in both horse groups were Cyathostomum catinatum, Cylicocyclus nassatus and Cylicostephanus calicatus, and they were frequently found in different combinations with other species regardless of horse group. Interestingly, this result is largely consistent with a previous Swedish study based on morphological analysis of adult worms. In addition, two migratory strongylids (Strongylus vulgaris and S. edentatus) occurred in few domestic horses and trotters. Except for C. minutus and C. nassatus, which decreased with age, and C. catinatum and S. vulgaris, which increased, no specific trends were observed with respect to horse age. Taken together, these results are broadly consistent with data obtained before the introduction of selective targeted treatment in Sweden in 2007. All in all, our results suggest that this treatment strategy has not led to a significant change in strongyle nematode community structure in Swedish horses. The study also confirms that nemabiome analysis in combination with diversity index analysis is an objective method to study strongyle communities in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Halvarsson
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Section for Parasitology, P.O. Box 7036, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Giulio Grandi
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Section for Parasitology, P.O. Box 7036, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Johan Höglund
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Section for Parasitology, P.O. Box 7036, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Sant C, Lima DM, d'Abadie R, Pargass I, Georges KC. Hematological profile of healthy Thoroughbred foals from birth to one month of age in Trinidad, West Indies. Am J Vet Res 2024; 85:ajvr.23.09.0206. [PMID: 38029514 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.23.09.0206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to develop a sound database for the hematological reference intervals of thoroughbred foals in Trinidad, West Indies from birth to 1 month of age. ANIMALS 89 foals. METHODS Whole blood samples were taken from 89 foals throughout Trinidad at approximately 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month of age. These foals were examined to be classified as healthy or free from disease. Complete blood count (CBC), microscopic analysis of blood smears, and conventional PCR for Theileria equi and Babesia caballi were performed. RESULTS Of the 89 foals, 67 were deemed healthy and suitable for establishing reference intervals. Foals in this study had lower mean hemoglobin and hematocrit values for all 3 times of sampling when compared to their North American counterparts. Age had a significant effect on hemoglobin, hematocrit, white blood cell (WBC), neutrophil, and platelet counts of the foals from birth to 1 month of age. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Variations in reference intervals can occur due to differences in demographic, physiological, and environmental factors such as age, gender, breed, and geographical location. Given the changes in the hematological values over time, this study provides clinicians with valuable information that can be used to monitor the health status of newborn foals and detect disease conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candice Sant
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies
| | - Daniel M Lima
- Pan American Foot-and-Mouth Disease Centre (PANAFTOSA), Pan American Health Organization, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Roger d'Abadie
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies
| | - Indira Pargass
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies
| | - Karla C Georges
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies
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White GM. Change to primary course equine influenza vaccine rules. Vet Rec 2024; 194:67. [PMID: 38240418 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.3872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
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Christoffersen M, Nielsen SB, Madvig CB, Agerholm JS. Potential risk factors for fetal loss due to umbilical cord torsion in the mare. Theriogenology 2024; 214:182-186. [PMID: 37897846 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
Equine pregnancy failure can occur throughout gestation with etiologies varying by region. In Europe, umbilical cord torsion (UCT) has been reported to account for up to 52% of abortions and stillbirths. Little is known about what causes excessive twisting of the umbilical cord (UC), and up till now, only the length of the UC has been identified as a risk factor for UCT. The aim of the present study was to determine the association of potential maternal and fetal risk factors with UCT and umbilical cord length (UCL). A retrospective cohort study was performed on aborted or prematurely delivered stillborn fetuses submitted for necropsy, and a follow-up questionnaire survey was sent to mare owners to obtain additional anamnestic data. In total 72 cases were included in the study. Multivariable regression analyses were performed to evaluate the risk factors (mare size, period of gestation, gestational length, parity, previous abortion, UCL, maternal age at abortion and fetal sex) association with UCT and UCL, and Wilcoxon rank sum test tested pairwise differences in UCL for the risk factors mare size, period of gestation and cause of abortion. Abortion caused by UCT (UCTA) was diagnosed in 37 cases, and these had shorter gestational length (8.1 ± 0.3 months) compared to fetuses lost to other causes (8.9 ± 0.2 months) (p = 0.002). UCTAs accounted for the highest prevalence of abortions in the mid gestational period (113-227 days) (14/21, 67%) compared to the late period (228-314 days) (22/50, 44%) (p = 0.05). The cause of abortion was associated with period of gestation (p = 0.009) and UCL (p = 0.002), and fetuses aborted as a consequence of UCT had longer UCs (98.84 ± 5.14 cm) compared to abortions due to other causes (67.2 ± 4.9 cm). Mares in the mid period of gestation had 7.9 times the odds of UCTA compared to the late period (CI: 1.93, 32.2), and UCL was associated with increased odds of UCTA (OR: 1.05, CI: 1.02, 1.07). UCL was associated with mare size (p = 0.012), period of gestation (p = 0.002) and cause of abortion (p = 0.001). In conclusion, UCTA was significantly associated with UCL and gestational length. The prevalence of UCTA was not influenced by mare size, but pony fetuses from UCTAs had significantly shorter UCs compared to horse fetuses. UCs longer than 54 cm may predispose ponies for UCTA. No other maternal or fetal risk factors were found to be associated with the cause of abortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette Christoffersen
- Section for Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Højbakkegaard Allé 5A, DK-2630, Taastrup, Denmark.
| | - Simone Bøgelund Nielsen
- Section for Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Højbakkegaard Allé 5A, DK-2630, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Conny Breining Madvig
- Section for Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Højbakkegaard Allé 5A, DK-2630, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Steen Agerholm
- Section for Reproduction and Obstetrics, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Højbakkegaard Allé 5A, DK-2630, Taastrup, Denmark
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Dos Santos CEP, Loreto ES, Zanette RA, Santurio JM, Marques LC. Epidemiology of horse pythiosis in the Pantanal of Mato Grosso: Exploring the host-parasite-vector relationship. J Equine Vet Sci 2024; 132:104976. [PMID: 38056727 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2023.104976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Horse pythiosis is considered an endemic disease in the Brazilian Pantanal region, causing devastating health and economic losses. This study aimed to enhance the understanding of pythiosis epidemiology, map the distribution of horse body lesions, and investigate the correlation between these lesions and warm body surface areas, potentially implicating hematophagous vectors in the disease's transmission. A prospective study was conducted on equids in the Pantanal Mato-grossense and adjacent areas from 2012 to 2022, with 112 horses and three mules diagnosed with pythiosis. Clinical and epidemiological data, lesions' photographic records, and healthy equids' thermal imaging were collected. Most pythiosis cases occurred between January and March, correlating with regional flood cycles. Most lesions were found on limbs and the ventral abdomen, with dark-colored horses exhibiting a higher frequency of lesions. Interestingly, the thermal mapping revealed that warm areas on a healthy horse's body overlapped significantly with lesion distribution - blood-sucking insects also prefer these areas. The results suggest that pythiosis lesions in horses correlate with warmer areas of the animal body, reinforcing the hypothesis of vector involvement in disease transmission. This study underscores the need for further observational research to fully understand the complex epidemiological dynamics of pythiosis in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos E P Dos Santos
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, MT, 78069-900, Brazil; Department of Clinical and Veterinary Surgery, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Erico S Loreto
- Sobresp Faculty of Health Sciences, Santa Maria, 97015-030, Brazil
| | - Régis A Zanette
- Department of Pharmacology, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, 2600 Ramiro Barcelos Street, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil.
| | - Janio M Santurio
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Luis C Marques
- Department of Clinical and Veterinary Surgery, São Paulo State University, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, 14884-900, Brazil
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Chalder R, Housby-Skeggs N, Clark C, Pollard D, Hartley C, Blacklock B. Ocular findings in a population of geriatric equids in the United Kingdom. Equine Vet J 2024; 56:121-130. [PMID: 37070252 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are a growing number of horses, ponies, and donkeys aged 15 years or older in the United Kingdom, yet there have been no studies utilising a complete ophthalmic examination to investigate the prevalence of ophthalmic pathology within this population. OBJECTIVES To investigate the prevalence of ophthalmic pathology and associations with signalment, in a convenience sample of geriatric equids in the United Kingdom. STUDY DESIGN Cross sectional. METHODS Horses, ponies, and donkeys aged 15 years or older based at The Horse Trust charity underwent a full ophthalmic examination including slit lamp biomicroscopy and indirect ophthalmoscopy. Relationships between signalment and pathology were assessed using Fisher's exact and Mann-Witney U tests. RESULTS Fifty animals were examined ranging from 15 to 33 years (median 24, interquartile range [IQR] 21, 27). The prevalence of ocular pathology was 84.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 73.8, 94.2%; n = 42). Four animals (8.0%) had adnexal pathology, while 37 (74.0%) and 22 (44.0%) had at least one form of anterior or posterior segment pathology, respectively. Of those with anterior segment pathology, 26 animals (52.0%) had cataract in at least one eye, with the most common location being anterior cortical (65.0% of those animals with cataract). Animals with posterior segment pathology included 21 animals (42.0%) with fundic pathology, with senile retinopathy being the most common (42.9% of all animals with fundic pathology). Despite the high prevalence of ocular pathology, all eyes examined remained visual. The most common breeds were Irish Draught (24.0%, n = 12), Shetland (18.0%, n = 9) and Thoroughbred (10%, n = 5); the majority were geldings (74.0%, n = 37). There was a statistically significant relationship between the presence of anterior segment pathology and breed (p = 0.006), with all Cobs and Shetlands examined having anterior segment pathology. The presence of posterior segment pathology and senile retinopathy were associated with older median age (posterior segment pathology: 26.0 years [interquartile range {IQR} 24.0, 30.0 years] vs. 23.5 years [IRQ 19.5, 26.5 years], p = 0.03; senile retinopathy: 27.0 years [IQR 26.0, 30 years] vs. 24.0 years [IQR 20.0, 27.0], p = 0.04). None of the pathologies investigated were more prone to affect one versus both eyes (p > 0.05; 71.4% of ocular pathologies were bilateral while 28.6% were unilateral). MAIN LIMITATIONS Data were obtained from a relatively small sample size of a single cohort of animals that lacked a control group. CONCLUSIONS There was a high prevalence and wide range of ocular lesions in this subset of geriatric equids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ria Chalder
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Claire Clark
- The Horse Trust, Slad Lane, Princes Risborough, UK
| | | | - Claudia Hartley
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Benjamin Blacklock
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Goldkuhl JEC, Zablotski Y, Sill V, Jahn W, Lorenz I, Brunk J, Gerlach K, Troillet A. Evaluation of cartilage injury in horses with osteochondral fragments in the metacarpo-/metatarsophalangeal joint: A study on 823 arthroscopies. Equine Vet J 2024; 56:89-98. [PMID: 36922161 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteochondral fragment removal is commonly performed but there are little scientific data supporting this procedure in the absence of clinical signs. More information is needed to facilitate clinical decision-making regarding fragment removal of the metacarpo-/metatarsophalangeal joint. OBJECTIVES To assess prevalence of cartilage injury in the equine metacarpo-/metatarsophalangeal joint and its association to fragment size, location, age and lameness. STUDY DESIGN Retrospective observational study. METHODS Clinical records, including radiographs of 823 metacarpo-/metatarsophalangeal joints (640 horses) that underwent arthroscopic fragment removal, were reviewed. Fragment size, intra-articular fragment location and cartilage injury score were recorded. Presence of synovitis was retrospectively evaluated in 157 joints. Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were used for group comparisons, and Dunn's post hoc test was applied for multiple comparisons. Linear regression analysis was used to assess strength of association between age and mean cartilage score. Univariable regression analysis was performed and variables with p < 0.2 were used in the final mixed-effects multivariable model to which backwards stepwise selection was applied. Significance level was p < 0.05. RESULTS Cartilage injury was present in 28.8% (95% CI = 25.8-32.0) of joints. Lameness was not associated with fragment location or fragment size. Fragment size was not associated with cartilage injury. Age (OR = 1.35, 95% CI = 1.22-1.48, p < 0.001) and lameness (OR = 5.03, 95% CI = 2.27-11.68, p < 0.001) were associated with cartilage injury as well as fragment location (palmar/plantar, OR = 0.22, 95% CI = 0.13-0.38, p < 0.001), with dorsal fragments being more likely to be associated with cartilage lesions than palmar/plantar fragments. There was a significant association between age and mean cartilage score (b = 0.18, 95% CI = 0.14-0.22, p < 0.001). MAIN LIMITATIONS The series included a heterogenous group of horses of different breed, sex, age and use. Data were collected retrospectively and could, in parts, not be fully evaluated. CONCLUSIONS Early fragment removal, especially in joints with dorsal fragmentation, can be beneficial to avoid future cartilage injuries in equine athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yury Zablotski
- Clinic for Horses at the Centre for Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
| | - Volker Sill
- Pferdeklinik Bargteheide, Bargteheide, Germany
| | - Werner Jahn
- Pferdeklinik Bargteheide, Bargteheide, Germany
| | - Ina Lorenz
- Pferdeklinik Bargteheide, Bargteheide, Germany
| | - Jan Brunk
- Pferdeklinik Bargteheide, Bargteheide, Germany
| | - Kerstin Gerlach
- Department for Horses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Antonia Troillet
- Department for Horses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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Bonsi M, Anderson NE, Carder G. The socioeconomic impact of equine epizootic lymphangitis in working equids in low and middle-income countries: A scoping review. J Equine Vet Sci 2024; 132:104981. [PMID: 38081331 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2023.104981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/01/2024]
Abstract
Equine epizootic lymphangitis (EEL) is a very infectious and contagious fungal disease that, with its ocular, respiratory and skin forms, causes severe effects on the health and welfare of working equids. Treatment is expensive and rarely available in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). Epidemiological data is lacking in most countries where the disease is known to exist. The purpose of this scoping review is to identify the current knowledge on the socioeconomic impact of EEL in working equids in LMICs, to highlight knowledge gaps and provide recommendations for future research. Seven eligible papers were obtained from the search of four databases and backward citation searching. The review showed that the available research on this subject is very scarce and restricted to Ethiopia. From the results it emerged that EEL causes detrimental socioeconomic effects on working equids' owners, compromising their health and livelihood. Its economic consequences were attributed to the reduced working capacity and loss of sick animals. Among the social impacts, authors highlighted the stigma around sick equids and their owners. Further studies on the socioeconomic impact of EEL conducted in endemic areas are highly required. The integration of epidemiological data with socioeconomic impact studies from LMICs may promote funding allocation for the development of cost-effective treatments and vaccines and for implementing disease prevention and control programmes. Future research would gain from applying the One Health approach to better examine the multiplicity of the disease socioeconomic effects, therefore increasing the potential of research to orientate policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Bonsi
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9RG, United Kingdom.
| | - Neil Euan Anderson
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9RG, United Kingdom
| | - Gemma Carder
- Brooke, Action for Working Horses and Donkeys, 2nd Floor, The Hallmark Building, 52-56 Leadenhall Street, London EC3A 2BJ, United Kingdom
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40
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Durando MM, Slack J, Birks E, Belcher C, Kohn C. Premature depolarisations in horses competing in United States Eventing Association and Fédération Equestre Internationale-sanctioned 3-day events. Equine Vet J 2024; 56:59-68. [PMID: 37248851 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Injuries and sudden death during the cross-country (XC) phase of eventing have raised interest in the frequency and types of cardiac arrhythmias occurring in these equine athletes. OBJECTIVES To characterise the frequency and types of rhythm disturbances and examine possible risk factors for premature depolarisations (PDs) occurring during the XC phase of United States Eventing Association (USEA) and Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI)-sanctioned events. STUDY DESIGN Prospective, cross-sectional study. METHODS Continuous electrocardiographic (ECG) recordings were obtained from horses prior to, during and immediately following the XC competition. Physiological rhythms pre-XC were included in the arrhythmia group for analysis. The frequency of PDs was calculated for all horses, as well as by division. PDs were categorised by complexity (singles, couplets, triplets, complex) and variably grouped for statistical analysis. Multiple logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for the presence of specific cardiac arrhythmia groupings during XC. RESULTS PDs were identified in 42/75 horses (56% [45, 67]) during XC. Horses competing in the upper divisions of eventing had higher odds for having any PD during XC compared to the lower divisions (OR = 17.5 [4.3, 72.01], p = 0.006). The amount of time the heart rate (HR) was greater than 199 beats per minute (BPM) was associated with more complex arrhythmias (triplets, salvos and tachyarrhythmias) (OR = 1.01 [1.0, 1.02], p = 0.005). An arrhythmia at rest (physiological or PD) was associated with arrhythmia in the early recovery period (OR = 3.5 [1.1, 10.8], p = 0.03). MAIN LIMITATIONS Convenience sampling and technical challenges of continuous ECG recordings under competition settings limited the number of enrollments. CONCLUSIONS PDs were seen in a high percentage of horses during the XC competition. Upper levels and time the HR was greater than 199 BPM were related to PD presence and complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary M Durando
- Equine Sports Medicine Consultants, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Joann Slack
- New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Eric Birks
- Equine Sports Medicine Consultants, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Carolyn Belcher
- Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Coastal Resources Division, Brunswick, Georgia, USA
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Peat FJ, Kawcak CE, McIlwraith CW, Keenan DP, Berk JT, Mork DS. Subchondral lucencies of the medial femoral condyle in yearling and 2-year-old Thoroughbred sales horses: Prevalence, progression and associations with racing performance. Equine Vet J 2024; 56:99-109. [PMID: 37345448 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Subchondral lucencies (SCLs) in the distal aspect of the medial femoral condyle (MFC) of young Thoroughbred horses are a source of controversy on presale radiographs. There is limited scientific evidence regarding the risk of progression and impact on future racing performance. OBJECTIVES To (1) identify the prevalence of MFC SCLs on sales repository radiographs in yearling and 2-year-old Thoroughbreds; (2) identify any association between grade of MFC SCL and future racing performance and (3) monitor changes in MFC SCL grades between yearling and 2-year-old sales. STUDY DESIGN Prospective cohort study. METHODS Radiographs were obtained with consignor permission from a 2016 yearling sale and five 2017 2-year-old sales. Stifle radiographs were evaluated and MFC SCLs graded on a scale of 0-3. Axial MFC lucencies were recorded separately. Maximum MFC grades per horse were analysed for associations with racing performance outcomes, adjusted for sex, to the end of the horses' 4-year-old racing year. Analysis was via logistic, negative binomial or linear regression as appropriate, with the threshold for significance set at α = 0.05. RESULTS Radiographs from 2508 yearlings (5016 stifles) and 436 2-year-olds (872 stifles) were included in the study. MFC SCLs of grades 1-3 were observed in 242 (9.65%) yearlings and 49 (11.2%) 2-year-olds. Bilateral MFC SCLs of grades 1-3 were observed in 54 (2.2%) yearlings and 12 (2.8%) 2-year-olds. Grade 1 MFC SCLs in yearlings either remained unchanged (14/31), progressed to a grade 2 (6/31) or resolved (11/31) by the 2-year-old sale. Grade 2 MFC SCLs in yearlings remained unchanged (6/10), progressed to a grade 3 (2/10) or improved to a grade 1 (2/10). Yearlings with a grade 3 MFC SCL had a 78% probability of starting a race (95% confidence interval [CI] 58.2-89.6%), compared with an 84% probability of racing for grade 0 yearlings (95% CI 82.7-85.8%). Six of the seven yearlings with axial MFC lucencies raced. MAIN LIMITATIONS This study may underestimate the prevalence of severe lesions in the general yearling population of U.S. Thoroughbreds. However, the convenience sample used is representative of the population of interest at sales. The study design could not address exclusions prior to sale. CONCLUSIONS Grade 1 MFC SCLs are the most common type seen in yearling and 2-year-old sales horses. The majority of yearling grade 1 MFC SCLs resolved or remained static by 2-year-old sales. It was also possible for grade 2 and 3 MFC SCLs to improve one grade between sales. Fewer sales yearlings with a grade 3 MFC SCL raced, but in those that did race there was no evidence of worse performance compared to unaffected peers. Axial MFC lucencies did not affect racing performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances J Peat
- Orthopaedic Research Center, C. Wayne McIlwraith Translational Medicine Institute, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Christopher E Kawcak
- Orthopaedic Research Center, C. Wayne McIlwraith Translational Medicine Institute, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - C Wayne McIlwraith
- Orthopaedic Research Center, C. Wayne McIlwraith Translational Medicine Institute, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | | | | | - Daniel S Mork
- Department of Statistics, College of Natural Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
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Ashrafzadeh-Shiraz M, Tavassoli M, Dalir-Naghadeh B, Sazmand A. Impaired efficacy of fenbendazole and ivermectin against intestinal nematodes in adult horses in Iran. Res Vet Sci 2024; 166:105078. [PMID: 37952299 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.105078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of fenbendazole and ivermectin on strongyles and Parascaris sp. infecting adult riding horses in three regions with different climates. During 2021 and 2022 fecal specimens were randomly collected from 483 horses older than three years in 31 equestrian clubs in Hamedan (n = 217), Yazd (n = 146) and Tabriz cities (n = 120). Eggs were counted by McMaster technique, and the strongyle larvae were identified using coproculture, PCR and sequencing. Horses with strongyles and Parascaris egg counts ≥150 were enrolled in fecal egg count reduction (FECR) examination following treatment with ivermectin or fenbendazole. In total, 26.5% of examined horses were positive with at least one parasite. Infection rates varied in three cities i.e., 25.8% in Hamedan, 28.8% in Yazd, 25% in Tabriz. Fifty-seven horses had FECR measured. FECR below <90% was observed for IVM-strongyle in two horses in Tabriz, for FBZ-strongyle in two horses in Tabriz and two horses in Hamedan, for IVM-Parascaris in one horse in all three cities, and for FBZ-Parascaris in one horse in Yazd. Furthermore, FECR 90-100% was observed in IVM-Parascaris and FBZ -Parascaris groups in Tabriz. Data herein presented demonstrate different degrees of resistance of strongyles and Parascaris infecting horses in Iran against both ivermectin and fenbendazole. Since non-principled use of anthelminthics is common among horse owners, urgency of test-and-treatment strategy should be educated and implemented by policy-making organizations. Evaluating efficacy of different anthelminthics and choosing the most effective treatment in each region is suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mousa Tavassoli
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, 5756151818 Urmia, Iran.
| | - Bahram Dalir-Naghadeh
- Department of Internal Disease and Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, 5756151818 Urmia, Iran.
| | - Alireza Sazmand
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Bu-Ali Sina University, 6517658978 Hamedan, Iran.
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Olofsson KM, van de Velde N, Peletto S, Iulini B, Pratley L, Modabberzadeh B, Małek E, Grandi G. First Swedish case of fatal equine parasitic encephalitis by Halicephalobus gingivalis. Acta Vet Scand 2023; 65:56. [PMID: 38102633 PMCID: PMC10722705 DOI: 10.1186/s13028-023-00719-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Halicephalobus gingivalis is a nematode with zoonotic potential which can cause fatal opportunistic infections in various mammals. The parasite has never been diagnosed in Sweden, in any species, prior to the presented case. CASE PRESENTATION An imported 21-year-old Icelandic mare developed severe neurological signs. The horse was eventually euthanized and submitted for post-mortem examination where severe lesions in the kidneys were noted. Histopathology revealed the presence of H. gingivalis in both kidneys and the brain. Phylogenetic analysis of the parasite determined it to belong to Lineage 1. CONCLUSIONS With the occurrence of H. gingivalis in Sweden, the disease should be added to the list of differential diagnoses in cases with acute onset of neurological disease in both horses and other mammals including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Maria Olofsson
- Department of Pathology and Wildlife Diseases, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Norbert van de Velde
- Department of Pathology and Wildlife Diseases, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Simone Peletto
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle D'Aosta, Turin, Italy
| | - Barbara Iulini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle D'Aosta, Turin, Italy
| | - Laura Pratley
- Evidensia Specialisthästsjukhuset Helsingborg, Helsingborg, Sweden
| | | | - Emilian Małek
- Department of Pathology and Wildlife Diseases, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Giulio Grandi
- Department of Microbiology, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden.
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Chien RC, Mingqun L, Yan Q, Randolph N, Huang W, Wellman M, Toribio R, Rikihisa Y. Strains of Anaplasma phagocytophilum from horses in Ohio are related to isolates from humans in the northeastern USA. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0263223. [PMID: 37882777 PMCID: PMC10715102 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02632-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE The tick-borne obligatory intracellular bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum infects humans as well as domesticated and wild animals, causing a febrile disease collectively called granulocytic anaplasmosis. The epidemiology and the host species specificity and zoonotic potential of A. phagocytophilum strains remain unclear. In this study, ankA (encoding ankyrin A) and p44 gene sequences of A. phagocytophilum were determined in clinical specimens from horses in Ohio and compared with those found in A. phagocytophilum strains from various hosts and geographic regions. With increasing numbers of seropositive horses, the study points out the unrecognized prevalence and uncharacterized strains of A. phagocytophilum infection in horses and the importance of A. phagocytophilum molecular testing for the prevention of equine and human granulocytic anaplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rory C Chien
- Laboratory of Molecular, Cellular, and Environmental Rickettsiology, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Lin Mingqun
- Laboratory of Molecular, Cellular, and Environmental Rickettsiology, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Qi Yan
- Laboratory of Molecular, Cellular, and Environmental Rickettsiology, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Nina Randolph
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Weiyan Huang
- Laboratory of Molecular, Cellular, and Environmental Rickettsiology, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Maxey Wellman
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Ramiro Toribio
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Yasuko Rikihisa
- Laboratory of Molecular, Cellular, and Environmental Rickettsiology, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio, USA
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45
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Investigating horse fatalities on UK racecourses. Vet Rec 2023; 193:429. [PMID: 38038298 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.3723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
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46
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El-Hage C, Gilkerson J. Chlamydia psittaci: an emerging cause of equine abortion and fatal neonatal illness in south-eastern Australia. Vet Rec 2023; 193. [PMID: 38038292 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.3739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
While well known as a zoonotic pathogen of birds, Chlamydia psittaci is less well recognised as a cause of abortion in mares and severe infection in foals. However, in the past decade it has been causing epizootics of both in south-eastern Australia, as Charles El-Hage and James Gilkerson explain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles El-Hage
- Centre for Equine Infectious Disease, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - James Gilkerson
- Centre for Equine Infectious Disease, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Australia
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Equine disease surveillance: quarterly update. Vet Rec 2023; 193. [PMID: 38038289 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.3738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
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Takai S, Suzuki Y, Sasaki Y, Kakuda T, Ribeiro MG, Makrai L, Witkowski L, Cohen N, Sekizaki T. Short review: Geographical distribution of equine-associated pVAPA plasmids in Rhodococcus equi in the world. Vet Microbiol 2023; 287:109919. [PMID: 38000208 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2023.109919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Virulent Rhodococcus equi strains expressing virulence-associated 15-17 kDa protein (VapA) and having a large virulence plasmid (pVAPA) of 85-90 kb containing vapA gene are pathogenic for horses. In the last two decades, following pVAPA, two host-associated virulence plasmid types of R. equi have been discovered: a circular plasmid, pVAPB, associated with porcine isolates in 1995, and a recently detected linear plasmid, pVAPN, related to bovine and caprine isolates. Molecular epidemiological studies of R. equi infection in foals on horse-breeding farms in Japan and many countries around the world have been conducted in the last three decades, and the epidemiological studies using restriction enzyme digestion patterns of plasmid DNAs from virulent isolates have shown 14 distinct pVAPA subtypes and their geographical preference. This short review summarizes previous reports regarding equine-associated pVAPA subtypes in the world and discusses their geographic distribution from the standpoint of horse movements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinji Takai
- Department of Animal Hygiene, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University, Towada, Aomori 034-8628, Japan.
| | - Yasunori Suzuki
- Department of Animal Hygiene, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University, Towada, Aomori 034-8628, Japan
| | - Yukako Sasaki
- Department of Animal Hygiene, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University, Towada, Aomori 034-8628, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Kakuda
- Department of Animal Hygiene, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University, Towada, Aomori 034-8628, Japan
| | - Márcio Garcia Ribeiro
- Department of Veterinary Hygiene and Public Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, UNESP-São Paulo State University, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - László Makrai
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Szent István University, Hungária krt. 23-25, H-1143 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Lucjan Witkowski
- Laboratory of Veterinary Epidemiology and Economics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska 159c, 02-776, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Noah Cohen
- Equine Infectious Disease Laboratory, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Tsutomu Sekizaki
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan; Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Molazadeh S, Tukmechi A, Hadian M, Dalir-Naghadeh B. Phylogenetic analysis of Ehrlichia species isolated from horses and dogs in Iran. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2023; 103:102080. [PMID: 37913628 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2023.102080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the prevalence and phylogenetic analysis of Ehrlichia spp. in horses and dogs in Iran. Blood samples were collected from 400 animals, including 200 horses and 200 dogs, from five different provinces in Iran. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect Ehrlichia spp. based on amplification of the 16S rRNA gene. The semi-nested PCR method was used to amplify the dsb, TRP36, and gltA genes. The results showed that 4.5 % of the samples (3 % horses and 6 % dogs) were positive for Ehrlichia sp. The highest prevalence was observed in Kerman and Khuzestan, while the lowest was found in West Azerbaijan, Golestan, and Mazandaran. The study suggests that the populations of dogs and horses in the country should be considered important factors in the epidemiology of ehrlichiosis. Phylogenetic analysis based on the dsb and TRP36 genes revealed that the prevalent species were E. canis and E. ruminantium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siamak Molazadeh
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, West Azerbaijan, Iran.
| | - Amir Tukmechi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, West Azerbaijan, Iran.
| | - Mojtaba Hadian
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, West Azerbaijan, Iran.
| | - Bahram Dalir-Naghadeh
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, West Azerbaijan, Iran.
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Hain AM, Þórisdóttir SL, Tretow M, Bienert-Zeit A. Potential impact of natural conditions on the rostral oral health: a study of horses in Iceland. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2023; 261:S108-S113. [PMID: 38016277 DOI: 10.2460/javma.23.06.0303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In the context of a study of Equine Odontoclastic Tooth Resorption and Hypercementosis (EOTRH), elderly Icelandic horses were examined in their originating country. The subject of this survey was the impact of dental treatment and keeping and feeding management on the health of the rostral oral cavity. ANIMALS A total of 170 horses (aged ≥ 15) located in different areas of Northwest, West, and South Iceland. METHODS The horse owners completed a questionnaire about keeping, feeding, and preventative dental care. The horses were clinically examined with particular attention to gingival and dental disorders of the rostral mouth, such as gingivitis, fistula, gingiva retraction, enlargement of the roots and dental calculus as well as integrity of incisors, bite angle, and tooth mobility. RESULTS Most of the horses were kept on pasture all year with little supplementary feeding. The frequency of dental treatment in Iceland was low. Only a few horses were affected by tooth loss, gingivitis, gingival recession, and incisor calculus. Calculus occurred more frequently and more severely in canines than in incisors. The findings did not depend on the location of the horse. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Assuming that the remarkable health of the rostral oral cavity in elderly Icelandic horses was not caused by preventive dental care, it is likely that it was due to living conditions in Iceland. Continuity, intensity of chewing, and nativeness of forage might promote the health of incisors and tissue surrounding the tooth even in elderly horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Hain
- Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | | | - Melusine Tretow
- Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Astrid Bienert-Zeit
- Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
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