Determination of exposure to Fasciola hepatica in horses from Uruguay using a recombinant-based ELISA

Abstract

The risk of exposure to Fasciola hepatica in horses from Uruguay was evaluated using ELISA and a recombinant surface protein (FhrAPS). Blood samples were collected from 368 horses from different districts. Detection of antibodies and the seasonal IgG pattern against the trematode was also established. The overall seroprevalence was 54% (ranging 23% November to 93% December). Significantly higher values were observed in the Anglo-Arab horses (86%) and in those older than xix year (63%). No sex- or origin-differences were observed. Two primary risk periods for infection in Uruguay have been identified, the end of spring and autumn. Exposure to the fluke should be taken into account among those horses feeding on pastures grazed by ruminants. Using FhrAPS-ELISA, helpful information concerning the risk of horses to the infection by trematode can be obtained. This test allows the opportunity to compare the results achieved in different laboratories by minimising specific regional effects.