Randomized controlled trial of effects of Escherichia coli antiserum on serum immunoglobulin G concentrations and morbidity and mortality rates in foals.

The research study sought to determine the effect of administering an Escherichia coli (E. coli) antiserum on the immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels, morbidity, and mortality rates in newborn foals. However, it was concluded that the E. coli antiserum did not significantly impact these factors within the first 60 days of the foals’ lives.

Study Design

• The researchers carried out a randomized controlled trial involving 271 newborn foals on four methodically managed farms. Five broad categories of data were monitored in the research study:
  • Demographics – these parameters included breed, sex, month and season of birth.
  • Dams’ characteristics – these measured were the age and parity of the foals’ mothers and the length of gestation.
  • Intervention – This is where the distinction between control and treatment groups was implemented. Foals in the treatment group were given E. coli antiserum orally within 8 hours of being born, in addition to suckling colostrum naturally.
  • Serum IgG concentration – The levels of serum IgG were measured between 18 and 36 hours after birth from serum samples.
  • Morbidity and mortality – Disease occurrences and infectious causes of death were recorded for the first 60 days of life.

Results

• When comparing the control and treatment groups, there was no significant difference in the factors monitored. Despite the administration of E. coli antiserum, it was observed:
  • There was no significant difference in the mean serum IgG concentration.
  • There was no notable difference in the failure rate of passive transfer of immunity.
  • No significant difference was detected in the frequency or causes of diseases, or mortality rates due to infectious diseases.

Conclusion

• The randomized controlled trial concluded that the administration of E. coli antiserum didn’t appreciably affect the serum IgG concentrations or the morbidity and mortality rates during the first 60 days of life in the foals on well-managed farms. This suggests that while E. coli antiserum may have potential applications in the management of equine health, this specific use does not appear to offer significant benefits.