Equine recurrent uveitis: Human and equine perspectives.

This research paper discusses equine recurrent uveitis (ERU), a common disease in horses characterised by recurrent episodes of intraocular inflammation. The study explores the immunology and genetics of ERU, compares the disease in horses with autoimmune anterior uveitis in humans, and explores potential reasons for the disease’s higher prevalence in horses.

Disease Characterisation and Prevalence

• Equine recurrent uveitis (ERU) is a disease that primarily affects horses. It is characterised by repeated occurrences of inflammation in the inner part of the eye, specifically the intraocular region.
• This condition appears to be significantly more common in horses than its counterpart in humans – recurrent uveitis. There are also notable disparities in prevalence among different breeds and geographical regions in the horse population.
• Despite the prevalence of ERU, the exact epidemiological values haven’t been completely understood, which suggests more research in this area.

Immunological and Genetic Predisposition

• The immune response in both humans and horses suffering from uveitis is altered. The primary pathophysiology or disease development is marked by a distinct autoimmune response where the body’s immune system attacks its own cells.
• The research also explores potential inciting factors such as microbial agents. In particular, microorganisms like Leptospira spp may play a significant role in triggering the disease in horses.
• Additionally, genetic factors may also play a role. Horses may have a higher genetic predisposition to ERU compared to humans, and this high susceptibility to the disease in horses may stem from a combination of their genetic makeup and microbial factors.

Comparison with Human Autoimmune Anterior Uveitis and Increased Prevalence in Horses

• This research aims to compare ERU in horses with autoimmune anterior uveitis in humans. The latter is a subtype of uveitis marked by inflammation at the front parts of the eye.
• In the comparison, various similarities and differences between the two conditions are highlighted and discussed, providing insights into the disease’s pathophysiology.
• Moreover, potential reasons for the high prevalence of the disease in horses compared to humans are also discussed. The research hopes that the focus on these aspects will shed light on why horses are more susceptible to this disease.