Review of equine piroplasmosis

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Equine Infectious Diseases
• Tick-borne Pathogens

Background:

• Equine piroplasmosis is caused by two main erythrocytic parasites: Babesia caballi and Theileria equi.
• Both parasites are transmitted by ticks and cause erythrolysis, leading to anemia in horses.
• While B. caballi infects erythrocytes directly, T. equi initially infects peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pathogenesis of equine piroplasmosis caused by Babesia caballi and Theileria equi.
• To explore factors contributing to the re-emergence of Theileria equi in the United States.
• To enhance understanding of diagnosis and control strategies for these tick-borne equine pathogens.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on equine piroplasmosis.
• Analysis of shared and divergent pathogenic mechanisms of B. caballi and T. equi.
• Examination of factors influencing the re-emergence of T. equi.

Main Results:

• Babesia caballi and Theileria equi share tick-borne transmission and cause anemia.
• B. caballi infects erythrocytes immediately, while T. equi targets mononuclear cells.
• T. equi has recently re-emerged in the United States, increasing awareness.

Conclusions:

• Equine piroplasmosis requires careful diagnosis and control due to re-emergence.
• Understanding divergent pathogenesis is crucial for managing these diseases.
• Continued research into tick-borne pathogens like T. equi is essential for equine health.