Serological detection and risk factors for equine piroplasmosis in the semiarid region of Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil.

The research investigated the prevalence and risk factors for equine piroplasmosis – a disease which impacts horses – in the semiarid region of Pernambuco, Brazil. The study detected and measured the antibodies for this disease in equine blood and horse ticks.

Research Methodology

• For this study, the research team took blood samples from 393 horses located in the Petrolina municipality of Pernambuco, northeastern Brazil.
• The researchers tested these blood samples for anti-Babesia caballi and anti-Theileria equi antibodies using the ELISA (Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) method.
• In addition to equine blood, ticks present on horses were also examined. A total of 101 ticks were collected and subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify and detect any Babesia spp DNA present.

Key Findings

• Blood smears did not reveal the presence of parasites. However, antibodies of B. caballi and T. equi were found in a considerable percentage of horses – 27.2% and 34.8% respectively.
• 4.3% (17 out of 393) of horses were found to be infested with Dermacentor nitens, a type of tick. However, no antibodies of B. caballi or T. equi were found in ticks via DNA amplification.
• The study identified several risk factors for the presence of anti-T. equi antibodies in horses. These include being purebred, over 156 months old, and having ticks. No specific risk factors were identified for B. caballi.

Conclusion and Significance

• The study provides evidence for the circulation of agents causing equine piroplasmosis in the Petrolina municipality of Pernambuco, Brazil.
• This research adds to the understanding of the epidemiology of this economically significant disease in horses, which could aid in future prevention and treatment efforts.