[Preliminary studies on the incidence of Filaziae in equidae in the Netherlands (author’s transl)].

This research article focuses on the examination of the incidence of Filaziae, specifically the species Onchocerca cervicalis, in horses and one donkey in the Netherlands using skin biopsies.

Research Context

• The study was conducted in the context of examining the prevalence of a class of parasites called Filaziae in equidae (a family that includes horses and donkeys).
• These parasites are often found in large mammals and are typically transmitted through blackfly and mosquito bites.
• Specifically, this study was concerned with a species in the Filaziae class known as Onchocerca cervicalis, which is known to cause Onchocerciasis in horses.

Research Methodology

• Biopsies of the skin in the umbilical area were taken from ninety-nine horses and one donkey, all of which were reared in the Netherlands.
• The use of skin biopsies in this location is significant because it is an effective way to test for the presence of microfilariae (the infective larvae of parasitic worms) as these parasites often inhabit areas of loose skin.
• The biopsy specimens were then examined using a specific recovery procedure to check for the presence of microfilariae.

Research Findings

• Upon examination, microfilariae were identified in eight of the horses.
• In each case, the microfilariae were of the species Onchocerca cervicalis.
• Based on these findings, the researchers concluded that there is indeed presence of Onchocerca cervicalis within the equidae population in the Netherlands.
• Further research may be required to understand the clinical implications of this prevalence and to devise strategies for reducing the incidence and impact of Onchocerca cervicalis infection among domestic horses and donkeys.

From this study, it’s evident that Onchocerca cervicalis, a specific species of the Filaziae class of parasites, is present in a portion of the equidae population in the Netherlands.