Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
First case report on the occurrence of Trypanosoma evansi in a Siam B Mare in Kelantan, Malaysia.
- Journal:
- Veterinary medicine and science
- Year:
- 2021
- Authors:
- Mohd Rajdi, Nur Zul Izzati et al.
- Affiliation:
- Clinical Department
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
This report describes the first known case of a horse in Kelantan, Malaysia, testing positive for a parasite called Trypanosoma evansi, which can cause a disease known as Surra. The horse, a Siam B mare, was very tired and eating less than usual, and it collapsed during the visit to the veterinarian. To help stabilize her, she received fluids and vitamins, but tests showed she had a type of anemia and the parasite was found in her blood. Unfortunately, the mare died two days later, and a post-mortem examination revealed that the parasite had affected her brain and other organs. This case highlights the need for awareness of this disease in horses, especially in areas where it is common.
Abstract
This is the first case report for the positive Trypanosoma evansi incident in Kelantan, Malaysia confirmed through protozoa detection in a Siam B mare. The horse was presented with complaints of lethargy and inappetence and it collapsed on the day of visit. Normal saline and dextrose solution were administered intravenously, while multivitamins and nerve supplements were given intramuscularly to stabilise the horse before further treatment. Haematological findings showed normocytic hypochromic anaemia and are suggestive of regenerative anaemia. Thin blood smear and examination revealed the presence of Trypanosoma sp., and it was confirmed as T. evansi through molecular identification. The horse was found dead 2 days after and post-mortem was conducted. Histopathology revealed that the horse had developed a neurological form of the disease, besides the detection of the protozoa in heart, spleen and kidney tissue. This first positive Surra case in Kelantan, Malaysia, that is bordering Thailand confirms the increasing concern of transboundary infections. In conclusion, Surra is a potential emerging disease and should be considered as differential diagnosis in horses with pale mucous membrane. This condition is particularly imperative in horses found in these regions as Surra is endemic.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33161648/