Prevalence and serum protein values of strangles (Streptococcus equi) affected mules at Remount Depot, Sargodha (Pakistan)

Abstract

The prevalence of Streptococcus equi serovar equi (S.equi) in nasal discharge and pus samples from sub-mandibular lymph nodes in mules at the Remount Depot, Sargodha was examined and total serum proteins, serum albumin, serum globulin and fibrinogen measured. A total of 250 nasal swabs and pus samples were collected from mules and examined microbiologically: 99 (39.6%) were positive for S. equi. A higher occurrence of S. equi was recorded in foals as compared to adults. The concentrations of total serum protein, serum globulin and fibrinogen were significantly increased (P<0.05), while the concentration of serum albumin significantly decreased (P<0.05) in strangles-affected mules. It was concluded that increased total serum proteins, serum globulin and fibrinogen along with decreased serum albumin were important indicators of infection by S. equi in mules. © 2010 EVJ Ltd.