Disease features of equine coronavirus and enteric salmonellosis are similar in horses.

This research investigates the similarities in disease features between equine coronavirus (ECoV) and salmonellosis in horses, with the aim of improving clinical identification of ECoV infection.

Objective and Methodology

The objective of the study was to compare the clinical features of ECoV infection and salmonellosis in horses, in order to recognize a disease signature that could help increase clinical suspicion of ECoV infection. Using data from forty-three adult horses, the researchers compiled and examined medical records, which included results of complete blood cell count (CBC), serum biochemistry and fecal testing for ECoV and Salmonella.

• Horses that were part of the study belonged to the North Carolina State University Equine and Farm Animal Veterinary Center and were over a year old.
• The data was analysed using 1-way analysis of variance, Kruskal-Wallis test, or Fisher’s exact test, with statistical significance set at P < .05.
• The horses were divided into three groups based on the fecal diagnostic test results: ECoV-positive, Salmonella-positive, or unknown diagnosis (UNK).

Results

• The most common presenting complaints were fever and colic, and these were similar across all groups.
• The researchers found that horses with ECoV had significantly lower neutrophil counts compared to those with an unknown diagnosis. However, these neutrophil counts were not significantly different from those observed in horses with Salmonella.
• Salmonella-infected horses were found to have significantly lower mean leukocyte counts compared to those with an unknown diagnosis.
• No significant differences were found among the groups for any other examined variable.

Conclusion

Based on the research findings, the researchers concluded that ECoV and Salmonella infections share similar clinical features. This suggests that both diseases should be considered as differential diagnoses in horses presenting with fever and enteric clinical signs. Understanding the similarities can assist veterinarians in identifying and treating ECoV infection in horses more efficiently.