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Equine veterinary journal1998; 30(4); 289-293; doi: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.1998.tb04099.x

Survey of anthelmintic resistance on Danish horse farms, using 5 different methods of calculating faecal egg count reduction.

Abstract: This study reports on the prevalence of anthelmintic resistance in strongyles of horses in Denmark. Of 5 methods used for the calculation of faecal egg count reduction (FECR) the method recommended by the World Association for the Advancement of Veterinary Parasitology, for the detection of resistance in sheep was the most sensitive procedure for detecting resistance. Using this method benzimidazole resistance was detected on 33 of 42 farms (79%) examined. Pyrantel was tested on 15 farms and FECR tests indicate resistance on 3 (30%) farms. On 2 farms on which resistance to pyrantel was detected resistance to benzimidazoles was also detected. On one of 16 farms examined ivermectin resistance was indicated at Day 14 but not at Day 19. On the 15 remaining farms ivermectin was effective. Due to the high prevalence of anthelmintic resistance in Danish horse herds it is recommended that tests of anthelmintic efficacy be conducted routinely to monitor the effectiveness of the strongyle control programmes.
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Publication Date: 1998-08-15 PubMed ID: 9705110DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-3306.1998.tb04099.xGoogle Scholar: Lookup
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  • Journal Article
  • Research Support
  • Non-U.S. Gov't

Summary

This research summary has been generated with artificial intelligence and may contain errors and omissions. Refer to the original study to confirm details provided. Submit correction.

This research examines the resistance of horse strongyles, a type of parasitic worm, to anthelmintic drugs on Danish farms, finding a high prevalence of the resistance. Of the different methods to calculate faecal egg count reduction (FECR), the study found the method recommended by the World Association for the Advancement of Veterinary Parasitology to be the most sensitive in detecting resistance.

Research Methods

  • Researchers used 5 different methods to calculate FECR – a widely accepted measure of the effectiveness of deworming drugs.
  • The study tested the resistance to 3 types of anthelmintic – benzimidazole and pyrantel as well as ivermectin – a type of new generation drugs.
  • The study involved 42 horse farms in Denmark with varying degrees of incidence and treatment of parasitic infestations.

Key Findings

  • Using the most sensitive method, the study discovered a staggering level of resistance to benzimidazole – 33 out of 42 or 79% of the farms showed drug resistance. This is a significant finding considering that benzimidazole is a commonly used horse dewormer.
  • While pyrantel was tested on fewer farms (15), 3 of them (20%) showed resistance.
  • The resistance to ivermectin – a potent and modern dewormer, was lower yet noticeable. Indications of resistance on one out of 16 farms (approximately 6%) was found.
  • It’s notable that on two farms both benzimidazole and pyrantel resistance was detected raising concerns of wider resistance.

Significance & Recommendations

  • The study highlights the high prevalence of anthelmintic resistance in Danish horse farms which, if left unchecked, could have profound health consequences for the equine population.
  • The study emphasizes the need to conduct routine tests for anthelmintic efficacy to monitor and manage the effectiveness of parasite control programs.
  • The researchers provide important insights about the necessity to develop strategies for effective nematode control in equine hosts, considering the widespread drug resistance.
  • Also, the study underscores the importance of the careful use of anthelmintics in order to slow down the development of resistance.

Cite This Article

APA
Craven J, Bjørn H, Henriksen SA, Nansen P, Larsen M, Lendal S. (1998). Survey of anthelmintic resistance on Danish horse farms, using 5 different methods of calculating faecal egg count reduction. Equine Vet J, 30(4), 289-293. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.2042-3306.1998.tb04099.x

Publication

Equine veterinary journal
ISSN: 0425-1644
NlmUniqueID: 0173320
Country: United States
Language: English
Volume: 30
Issue: 4
Pages: 289-293

Researcher Affiliations

Craven, J
  • Danish Veterinary Laboratory, Copenhagen V.
Bjørn, H
    Henriksen, S A
      Nansen, P
        Larsen, M
          Lendal, S

            MeSH Terms

            • Animals
            • Anthelmintics / pharmacology
            • Anthelmintics / therapeutic use
            • Denmark
            • Drug Resistance
            • Feces / parasitology
            • Fenbendazole / pharmacology
            • Fenbendazole / therapeutic use
            • Follow-Up Studies
            • Horses
            • Ivermectin / pharmacology
            • Ivermectin / therapeutic use
            • Parasite Egg Count / methods
            • Parasite Egg Count / veterinary
            • Pyrantel Pamoate / pharmacology
            • Pyrantel Pamoate / therapeutic use
            • Strongyle Infections, Equine / drug therapy
            • Strongyle Infections, Equine / parasitology
            • Strongyloidea / drug effects

            Citations

            This article has been cited 15 times.
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            4. Zanet S, Battisti E, Labate F, Oberto F, Ferroglio E. Reduced Efficacy of Fenbendazole and Pyrantel Pamoate Treatments against Intestinal Nematodes of Stud and Performance Horses. Vet Sci 2021 Mar 5;8(3).
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