Early embryonic death in equines and camelids

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Science
• Reproductive Biology
• Animal Science

Background:

• Early embryonic death (EED) is a significant concern in equine and camelid reproduction.
• EED encompasses fetal mortality occurring within the first 50 days of gestation.
• This period can be further categorized into very early, early, and late embryonic mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the phenomenon of early embryonic death (EED) in mares and camelids.
• To identify predisposing factors contributing to EED.
• To explore current diagnostic methods and treatment limitations for EED.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on EED in mares and camelids.
• Analysis of embryonic, maternal, environmental, infectious, and noninfectious factors implicated in EED.
• Discussion of diagnostic techniques, primarily ultrasound, for EED detection.

Main Results:

• EED occurs within the first 50 days of gestation, with variations between species.
• Multiple factors, including embryonic, maternal, environmental, and infectious agents, contribute to EED.
• Diagnosis is often difficult due to fetal resorption, with ultrasound being the primary diagnostic tool.

Conclusions:

• Currently, there is no definitive treatment to prevent early embryonic mortality in mares and camelids.
• New reproductive technologies show promise in improving herd reproductive rates.
• Further research is needed to accurately determine the rate and frequency of embryonic loss in camels.