Seroprevalence of antibodies to Sarcocystis neurona in horses residing in a county of southeastern Pennsylvania

Abstract

Objective - To determine seroprevalence of Sarcocystis neurona-specific antibodies in a population of horses residing in Chester County, Pa. Design - Prevalence survey. Sample Population - 117 serum samples from selected members of a population of 580 Thoroughbred horses. Procedure-Serum was analyzed for antibodies to Sarcocystic neurons, using a western blot Information regarding age, sex, and housing of horse was obtained by questionnaire. Data were analysed, using multivariable logistic regression. Results-Seroprevalence was 45.3% (95% CI, 36.3 to 54.3%) A relationship was not found between sero-prevalence and sex of horse. Seroprevalence was greater in older horses (logistic regression; P - 0.16). Clinical Implications-High seroprevalence of antibodies to S neurona and the lack of neurologic deficits among horses sampled indicate that positive results of serologic examination alone are of limited value for diagnosis of equine protozoal myeloen-cephahtis. Clinical signs consistent with the disease are the most important consideration in accurate diagnosis.