Seroprevalence of antibodies to Sarcocystis neurona in horses residing in a county of southeastern Pennsylvania.

摘要

117 serum samples were obtained from selected members of a population of 580 horses, maintained on Thoroughbred farms in Chester County, Pennsylvania between September 1993 and March 1994. Serum was analysed for antibodies to S. neurona, using a western blot. Information regarding age, sex and housing of horse was obtained by questionnaire. Data were analysed, using multivariable logistic regression. Seroprevalence was 45.3% (95% CI, 36.3 to 54.3%). A relationship was not found between seroprevalence and sex of horse. Seroprevalence was greater in older horses (P=0.16). High seroprevalence of antibodies to S. neurona and the lack of neurological deficits among horses sampled suggested that positive results of serological examination alone are of limited value for diagnosis of equine protozoal myeloencephalitis.