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Evaluation for immune system failures in horses and ponies.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|June 15, 1980
Summary
Immunologic abnormalities are common in horses and ponies, affecting 20% of animals. Early diagnosis of immune disorders like failure of passive transfer and combined immunodeficiency is crucial for foal and adult horse health.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Immunology
- Equine Health
- Animal Pathology
Background:
- Immunologic disorders can significantly impact equine health and survival.
- Understanding the prevalence and types of immune system abnormalities in horses is essential for veterinary practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the frequency and types of immunologic disorders in a large cohort of horses and ponies.
- To identify common immune deficiencies and their implications for equine populations.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 2,092 horses and ponies evaluated for immunologic disorders between 1973 and 1979.
- Documentation and categorization of detected abnormalities, including immunoglobulin transfer failures and specific immunodeficiencies.
Main Results:
- 20% of the evaluated animals (416 out of 2,092) exhibited 418 immunologic abnormalities.
- Failure or partial failure of colostral immunoglobulin transfer was the most prevalent disorder (228 cases).
- Combined immunodeficiency was exclusively observed in Arabian horses (159 cases).
Conclusions:
- Immunologic abnormalities are frequently encountered in horses and ponies.
- Failure of passive transfer is a significant issue affecting nearly 20% of foals at risk.
- Screening newborn foals and older horses with recurrent infections for immune disorders is recommended due to high prevalence and available diagnostics.