A rare clinical presentation of transplacental transmission and subsequent abortion by Babesia (Theileria) equi in a mare

Abstract

The present article deals with the rare presentation of transplacental transmission and subsequent abortion by Babesia (Theileria) equi. A pregnant mare was brought with the history of fever and inappetence. Per rectal examination revealed absence of fremitus of the foetus. The foetus was removed using foetotomy. Blood smear examination of the dam and contact smear of the aborted foetus revealed characteristic Maltese cross appearance of B. equi. The possible routes of transmission of parasite, its pathogenesis and future strategies are described in the present article.