Equine genital leptospirosis: Evidence of an important silent chronic reproductive syndrome.

This study proposes a new genital syndrome in horses linked to the bacteria leptospirosis, labeled “Equine Genital Leptospirosis” (EGL). It suggests a silent, chronic reproductive illness caused by a specific strain of leptospirosis, leading to problems such as subfertility. Currently, the infection is vastly underdiagnosed due to traditional testing methods unsuitable for detecting this particular illness.

Background and Objective

• The aim of this research is to investigate a potential silent chronic reproductive syndrome in horses caused by the bacteria leptospirosis and create awareness on the equine genital leptospirosis (EGL).

New Observations

• The researchers have identified the main agent of EGL as most likely being serovar Bratislava, a type of leptospirosis which is known to cause infections worldwide.
• The team suggests that sexual transmission is the most common way the disease is spread in an EGL context.

Impact of EGL

• EGL can cause several reproductive issues in horses, including subfertility, repeated estrus, and in less common cases, late-term abortions.

The Problem of Diagnosis

• The study reveals that current diagnostic methods, which heavily rely on serology, might not be effective in detecting this particular infection. This is because most investigations of equine leptospirosis use urinary samples, a method that isn’t successful for diagnosing EGL.
• This underdiagnosis has resulted in the syndrome being understudied and underestimated, leading to a lack of effective treatment options and preventative measures.

Potential Solutions

• PCR, specifically from cervicovaginal mucus (CVM) and uterine fragments, is considered a quick and definitive diagnostic method for EGL.
• To combat the effects of the disease, the researchers propose a triad treatment method: antibiotic therapy, vaccination, and environmental management.

Benefits

• The recognition of the unique characteristics of this syndrome could help elevate its occurrence, contributing to a wider understanding of its clinical manifestations, promoting the use of correct diagnosis, and fostering the development of new methods for controlling and treating it.