Equine Piroplasmosis Diagnostic Services
Equine Piroplasmosis (EP) can be diagnosed by:
- Serologic tests: Detecting serum antibodies against equine piroplasms.
- Molecular tests: Identifying equine piroplasms' DNA in circulating blood.
Each of these tests has its advantages and disadvantages depending on the phase of Equine Piroplasmosis and the diagnostic purpose. To confirm EP freedom, it is recommended to perform at least two different tests.
cELISA
Since 2004, the cELISA has been considered the gold standard for detecting chronic or inapparent infections. This test detects seroconversion 21 days after infection.
- Sensitivity: 95.0% for Babesia caballi and 100% for Theileria equi.
CFT (Complement Fixation Test)
The CFT is mainly used for detecting early (acute) infections, showing good sensitivity between 8 to 11 days after infection.
IFAT (Indirect Fluorescent Antibody Test)
The IFAT is a supplementary test often used when results from other tests, such as cELISA and CFT, are inconclusive. It is highly specific but requires diluting sera to reduce non-specific binding, which may decrease the test's sensitivity.
qPCR
The qPCR is a highly sensitive molecular test for detecting the parasite's DNA, ideal for diagnosing both acute and chronic infections.
Comprehensive Bundles
For a comprehensive diagnosis and a more complete assessment of Equine Piroplasmosis, consider our bundled testing options that combine multiple diagnostic methods for enhanced accuracy.
OIE Comparative Figure of Diagnostic Techniques
Below is a comparison of the diagnostic techniques used for Equine Piroplasmosis as outlined by the OIE:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Equine Piroplasmosis (EP) is a tick-borne disease caused by two protozoan parasites, Babesia caballi and Theileria equi, which infect horses, mules, donkeys, and zebras. It can lead to fever, anemia, and, in some cases, death.
Diagnosis is typically made using serological tests, like cELISA, or molecular tests, such as qPCR. These tests detect either antibodies or parasite DNA in the blood.
Horses imported into the U.S. must undergo specific testing during quarantine to confirm they are free of Equine Piroplasmosis. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) requires the following tests:
- cELISA: Tests for antibodies against Babesia caballi and Theileria equi. A negative result is required for import.
- Complement Fixation Test (CFT): This is performed alongside cELISA to ensure the horse is free from infection.
Yes, you can purchase diagnostic tests for Equine Piroplasmosis, such as cELISA, qPCR, and IFAT, to ensure your horse is free of infection before export. This helps minimize risks during quarantine. -> Buy Diagnostic Testing Bundle
The qPCR test is the most sensitive for detecting parasite DNA in blood and is highly effective for diagnosing both acute and chronic infections. However, serological tests like cELISA are also essential for confirming freedom from infection. -> Buy qPCR Testing