Histopathological lesions in reproductive organs, distal spinal cord and peripheral nerves of horses naturally infected with Trypanosoma equiperdum.
Authors: Yasine Ahmed, Ashenafi Hagos, Geldhof Peter, Van Brantegem Leen, Vercauteren Griet, Bekana Merga, Tola Alemu, Van Soom Ann, Duchateau Luc, Goddeeris Bruno, Govaere Jan
Journal: BMC veterinary research
Summary
# Dourine: Histopathological Evidence of Neurological and Reproductive Damage in Chronic Infection Dourine, a venereal disease of horses caused by *Trypanosoma equiperdum*, produces well-documented clinical signs affecting reproduction and the nervous system, yet the underlying tissue pathology has remained poorly characterised until now. Researchers examined reproductive organs, distal spinal cord and peripheral nerves from naturally infected horses in the chronic disease stage, using histopathological analysis to document the structural damage inflicted by the parasite. The study revealed significant inflammation and degenerative changes across all examined tissues, particularly affecting nerve fibres and reproductive structures—findings that help explain the progressive neurological decline and infertility observed clinically in affected animals. For equine practitioners managing suspect or confirmed dourine cases, these results underscore the systemic nature of infection and support the rationale for monitoring nervous system function closely alongside reproductive status. Understanding the extent of tissue damage in chronic dourine may also inform decisions around prognosis and the feasibility of recovery, particularly regarding permanent neurological deficits and breeding soundness.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Dourine causes characteristic tissue damage to reproductive, nervous system and peripheral structures — understanding these lesions helps explain the clinical signs observed in chronically infected horses
- •This study provides baseline histopathological data for dourine diagnosis and understanding disease progression in naturally infected horses
Key Findings
- •Naturally infected horses in chronic dourine stage show histopathological lesions in reproductive organs, distal spinal cord, and peripheral nerves
- •Pathologic tissue changes associated with dourine had been poorly described prior to this systematic histopathological evaluation