[Equine granulocytic ehrlichiosis (EGE), a review].

This research article reviews the disease Equine granulocytic ehrlichiosis (EGE), a rickettsial infection affecting horses, notable for its global presence and clinical symptoms such as anorexia, fever, and depression among others. Treatment of EGE, upon a positive diagnosis, often entails the administration of oxytetracycline.

Overview of EGE

• Equine granulocytic ehrlichiosis (EGE) is a disease affecting horses and has been observed in several countries across the world such as the United States, Brazil, Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, and potentially Great Britain.
• The disease is caused by a type of bacteria known as rickettsia Ehrlichia equi. This causative agent was first identified back in 1969.

Clinical Features of EGE

• The research presents a wide range of clinical features or symptoms associated with EGE. These include anorexia, fever, depression, limb oedema (swelling), icterus (jaundice), ataxia (lack of muscle coordination), petechiae (small purple or red spots on the skin), and orchitis (inflammation of the testes).

Hematological Changes due to EGE

• In the blood, EGE triggers several hematological changes. These include leukopenia (a decrease in white blood cells), thrombocytopenia (a decrease in platelets), anemia (a decrease in red blood cells or hemoglobin), and the presence of cytoplasmic inclusion bodies in neutrophils and eosinophils (types of white blood cells).
• At autopsy, vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels) may also be observed in affected horses.

Diagnosis and Treatment of EGE

• To diagnose EGE, a Giemsa stained blood smear can be used. This allows for the visualization of the Ehrlichia bacteria or any pathological changes in the blood cells.
• If diagnosis is positive, treatment using the antibiotic oxytetracycline can be initiated.