Equine coital exanthema and its potential economic implications for the equine industry.

This research examines a contagious horse disease called equine coital exanthema (ECE), spread by a specific herpesvirus (EHV-3). The study explores how this impacts the horse breeding industry economically, due to halting breeding activities, necessary additional care, risks of viral spread, underestimation of prevalence, and lack of effective surveillance systems.

What is Equine Coital Exanthema?

• Equine coital exanthema (ECE) is a contagious venereal disease in horses caused by equid herpesvirus 3 (EHV-3).
• This disease is characterized by the presence of painful papules, vesicles, pustules, and ulcers on the external genitalia of both male and female horses.
• EHV-3, an alphaherpesvirus, is different from other equine herpesviruses. It is prevalent in most horse breeding populations globally.

Impact on Horse Breeding Activities

• ECE forces temporary disruption in the mating activities of horses. Affected horses require additional care and supportive treatment, adding to the cost and time for horse breeders and owners.
• There is a risk of the virus spreading through different breeding methods, including the use of fresh or frozen semen, artificial insemination, and embryo transfer.

Challenges in Estimating Prevalence and Economic Impact

• Due to the absence of effective surveillance systems for ECE, assessing its true prevalence and economic impact is challenging.
• The actual prevalence and economic impact of ECE are probably underestimated, which means its impact on the horse breeding industry might be even more critical than currently understood.

Purpose and Scope of Review

• This research review aims to present recent advances in understanding EHV-3 infections.
• It considers the economic effects of ECE amidst the current circumstances in the equine industry.
• This review will help in gaining a more complete picture of ECE and its implications for the equine industry.