Dourine

Dourine is a sexually transmitted disease that primarily affects equine species, including horses, donkeys, and mules. It is caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma equiperdum. Dourine is unique among trypanosomal diseases in that it is not transmitted by an insect vector, but rather through coitus.

Etiology

The causative agent of Dourine, Trypanosoma equiperdum, is a flagellated protozoan. It is closely related to Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agent of African sleeping sickness in humans and Nagana in cattle.

Transmission

Dourine is transmitted through sexual contact, with the infected animal passing the disease to its mate. Unlike other trypanosomal diseases, Dourine does not involve an insect vector for transmission. This makes it unique among trypanosomiasis diseases.

Clinical Signs

Clinical signs of Dourine can vary widely, but often include genital swelling, skin lesions, and neurological symptoms such as incoordination and paralysis. In the late stages of the disease, affected animals may show signs of weight loss, anemia, and general weakness.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of Dourine is typically made through serological testing, including the Complement Fixation Test (CFT) and Indirect Fluorescent Antibody Test (IFAT). Treatment typically involves the administration of trypanocidal drugs, although resistance to these drugs is increasingly common.

Epidemiology

Dourine is found worldwide, but is most common in Africa, parts of Asia, and southern Europe. It is a reportable disease under the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), meaning that outbreaks must be reported to this international body.

Prevention and Control

Prevention of Dourine primarily involves the control of animal movement and the testing of animals for the disease before they are allowed to breed. Vaccines for Dourine are currently not available.

See Also

• Equine diseases
• Sexually transmitted diseases in animals
• Trypanosomiasis

This Protozoa related article is a stub.