Equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (Sarcocystis neurona and Neospora hughesi): Review

Abstract

Equine Protozoal Mieloencephalitis is a disease that affects equines and asininos by the occurrence and formation of cysts in the spinal cord and central nervous system of merozoites of Sarcocystis neurona and Neospora hughesi. In general, horses are accidental intermediate hosts of S. neurona when they ingest oocysts released in the skunks of the opossums (Didelphis spp.), Which are the definitive hosts. Although the occurrence and association of the disease has already been made with N. hughesi, the biology and transmission of the agent are not fully understood, although they should resemble Neospora caninum. The clinical picture in horses presents with neurological symptomatology and the prognosis is not favorable. Some cases of the disease have already been discovered in the south-western Goiás mesoregion, although the data have not been published, which has drawn the attention of veterinarians and researchers in the region. Therefore, the objective of this work is to review the Protozoan Equine Myeloencephalitis, explaining aspects of etiology, biology, epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of the disease.