Prevalence and risk factors for epizootic lymphangitis among equids in ethiopia during 2002-2023: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Authors: Girma Abayeneh, Tamir Dessalew
Journal: Journal of equine veterinary science
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Epizootic Lymphangitis Prevalence and Risk Factors in Ethiopian Equids Epizootic lymphangitis (EL), a fungal infection causing chronic lymphatic disease, represents a substantial welfare and economic burden across Sub-Saharan Africa, yet its true prevalence has lacked synthesis across available research. Abayeneh and Dessalew conducted a meta-analysis of 14 studies encompassing 7,217 equids in Ethiopia between 2002 and 2023, employing standardised statistical methods to assess heterogeneity, publication bias, and pooled disease burden across different equid populations and geographic regions. The pooled prevalence of EL across Ethiopia was found to be 20.24%, with notably higher rates in cart horses (20.98%) and the Amhara region (21.46%), whilst more recent studies and larger sample sizes suggested prevalence may be reaching approximately 25%. Three modifiable risk factors emerged with statistical significance: harness-related skin trauma, co-habitation in shared stables or yards where contaminated equipment is stored, and pre-existing wounds—all suggesting the infection spreads through direct inoculation into compromised skin barriers rather than passive exposure alone. For equine practitioners, these findings underscore the importance of rigorous wound management protocols, rigorous harness hygiene and fitting practices to prevent friction injuries, and isolation procedures when EL is suspected, particularly in working equid populations where economic pressure may otherwise delay intervention.
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Practical Takeaways
- •EL affects approximately 1 in 5 equids in Ethiopia; early recognition of wound-related lesions is critical for timely treatment and preventing spread
- •Implement strict stable hygiene protocols, avoid sharing harnesses, and manage harness-related trauma to reduce EL transmission—particularly important for working cart horses
- •Equids with existing wounds or harness injuries require enhanced monitoring and wound care to prevent EL establishment and reduce economic losses
Key Findings
- •Overall pooled prevalence of EL among equids in Ethiopia was 20.24% (95% CI: 16.27–24.21) across 14 studies
- •Cart horses showed the highest prevalence at 20.98%, with regional variation peaking in Amhara at 21.46%
- •Harness-inflicted wounds, sharing stables/yards with harnesses, and pre-existing wounds were significantly associated with EL
- •Studies using larger sample sizes (≥384 equids) and conducted 2002–2018 reported higher prevalence (24.67% and 25.52% respectively)