Epidemiology of epizootic lymphangitis of carthorses in northern Ethiopia using conventional diagnostic methods and nested polymerase chain reaction

Birhanu Hadush, Molla Michaelay, Habtamu Taddele Menghistu, Nigus Abebe, Abreha Tesfaye Genzebu, Habtom Kiros Bitsue, Berihun Afera, Bojia E. Duguma, Getachew Gugsa, Gobena Ameni

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

15 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Background: Epizootic lymphangitis (EL), caused by Histoplasma capsulatum variety farciminosum (HCF) is a contagious, chronic disease of equines, characterized by development of nodular lesions in the lymph nodes, lymphatic vessels and skin. It is one of the most important diseases of equines in Ethiopia, causing significant economic loss, particularly in the livelihood of carthorse owners. To date there is neither effective diagnostic nor control measure implemented in the country. Furthermore, there is a shortage of data on the epidemiology of the disease in different regions of this country. The aim of this study was to investigate epidemiology of EL in northern Ethiopia, using the conventional methods as well as nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results: The presence of HCF genetic material was confirmed in 44% (84/191) of the carthorses. Subclinical infection was observed in 18.2% (22/121) of the apparently healthy carthorses. Considering the nested PCR as a gold standard, sensitivity and specificity of clinical examination were 74% and 92.5%, respectively, while the area under the ROC curve (AUR) was 0.83 (95% confidence interval, 0.77, 0.896). Moreover, a moderate (k = 0.675) agreement observed between the nested PCR and clinical examination. Conclusions: This study demonstrated widespread occurrence of EL in northern Ethiopia, and the advantage of the nested PCR in detecting infection of HCF, even before the clinical symptoms became apparent.

Original languageEnglish
Article number375
JournalBMC Veterinary Research
Volume16
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Oct 7 2020
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Epizootic lymphangitis
  • Gram stain
  • Histoplasma capsulatum var farciminosum
  • PCR

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Veterinary

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