Equine Piroplasmosis: Current Status

Abstract

Equine piroplasmosis is a disease caused by the protozoa Babesia caballi (B. caballi) and Theileria equi (T. equi) that are transmitted mainly by ixodid ticks, and affects several species of equidae. It is globally widespread, increasing its incidence in tropical and subtropical regions where there is a higher proportion of vectors. This disease leads to large associated economic losses, including the cost of treatment, especially in acute cases, abortions, loss of performance, death, and the cost of tests used in controls related to export or participation in equestrian sports. Countries free of this disease limit the entry of seropositive equidae. The cELISA for T. equi and B. caballi is currently the recommended test for international transport of horses. The affirmation of EP in blood smears or by in vitro technique is a diagnostic method, but it requires an experienced person to carry it out. Therefore, many different serodiagnostic tests have been recommended for correct confirmation. As there is no vaccine available for EP, effective tick control must be carried out, the effective diagnostic tests and their treatment must be known, and imidocarb dipropionate is currently the most effective.