Detection of Equus caballus Papillomavirus in Equine Aural Plaque Samples.
Authors: Bromberger Cristiana R, Costa Julia Rodrigues, Herman Mariana, Hernandez Juliana Mira, Albertino Lukas Garrido, Alves Carlos Eduardo Fonseca, Borges Alexandre S, Oliveira-Filho Jose P
Journal: Journal of equine veterinary science
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Equine Papillomavirus Detection in Aural Plaques Aural plaques represent a common and often persistent condition in horses, with Equus caballus papillomavirus (EcPV) implicated as a significant aetiological agent. This Brazilian study examined 29 plaque samples from 15 horses (plus 108 archived samples) using PCR to identify which of the ten known EcPV types were present, employing both published and newly designed primers to detect all viral variants comprehensively. EcPV 6 emerged as the predominant type at 81% prevalence, with EcPVs 3, 4 and 5 detected in 72%, 63% and 47% of samples respectively, whilst EcPVs 2, 7, 8 and 9 were entirely absent from aural plaque tissue. These findings confirm that only a subset of papillomavirus types actually contribute to plaque formation in the equine ear, which has practical value for practitioners developing diagnostic protocols and understanding regional viral epidemiology. For farriers and veterinarians managing horses with chronic aural plaques, this data reinforces that treatment approaches should account for papillomavirus involvement as a primary factor rather than secondary consideration, though further research into cofactors and transmission routes would strengthen management recommendations.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Equine aural plaques in Brazil are primarily associated with EcPV types 3, 4, 5, and 6; understanding the local viral epidemiology may inform treatment and management strategies
- •PCR testing can identify specific EcPV types present in aural plaque samples, which may help guide clinical decision-making and prognosis
- •The high prevalence of multiple EcPV types suggests aural plaques may be multifactorial, requiring comprehensive management approaches
Key Findings
- •EcPV 6 was most prevalent at 81% in aural plaque samples, followed by EcPV 3 (72%), EcPV 4 (63%), and EcPV 5 (47%)
- •EcPVs 2, 7, 8, and 9 were not detected in any evaluated samples, suggesting these types are not involved in equine aural plaque etiology in Brazil
- •Multiple EcPV types were identified as playing important roles in the etiology of equine aural plaque in Brazil