Assessment of serum levels of allergen-specific immunoglobulin E in different seasons and breeds in healthy horses.

This research studied the levels of allergen-specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE), a type of antibody, in healthy horses. The findings reveal that these levels change with the seasons and vary across different horse breeds.

Study Objective and Methodology

• The study aimed to measure and assess levels of specific IgE towards environmental allergens in 42 healthy horses.
• The researchers looked at serum levels of allergen-specific IgE, using an equine monoclonal antibody and a panel of allergens common in the North European environment.
• These measures help diagnose allergic diseases, guide treatment, and choose allergens for specific immunotherapy.

Main Findings

• The serum levels of allergen-specific IgE in healthy horses were found to increase seasonally.
• High percentages of positive reactions were observed mostly for domestic mites like D. farinae, D. pteronyssinus, T. putrenscentiae, and Acarus siro.
• These allergens play significant roles in atopic dermatitis – a skin condition seen not only in horses but also in dogs and cats.
• The study also found high IgE levels for horse-specific insect allergens including Tabanus sp., Culicoides sp., and Simulium sp.

Seasonal Variation and Living Conditions

• Horses showed no positive reactions to any allergens in the winter season, and antibody levels relating to D. farinae and T. putrescentiae allergens were low and barely detectable.
• Horses living in stables showed elevated levels of mould-IgE, while horses living outdoors showed very low levels.
• Across all positive reactions, only weak and moderate reactions were noted, with no strong positive reactions observed.

Breed Differences

• The study revealed no significant differences in allergen-specific IgE levels among three horse breeds studied, with the exception of moulds and D. pteronyssinus allergens.