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Equine tapeworm infections should be considered as part of the overall parasite control strategy. First, we will discuss an introduction to tapeworm infection before we move into diagnosis of the condition and, finally, into the treatment of Tapeworm.infolio-rg.ru
Tapeworm Infections in Horses Occur Worldwide and Can Lead to Colic
All anoplocephalid tapeworms use the mite species as intermediate hosts, which are then ingested by horses during grazing. Tapeworms can reside in the equine’s small intestine or in the area around the ileocaecal junction depending on the species of tapeworm. Prevalence varies based on time of year as certain mites appear to prefer certain habitats more than others.
Diagnostic Techniques Have Been a Focus in Recent Years to Guide the Veterinarian to Make Strategic Decisions Regarding Tapeworm Control
Coprological techniques are the traditional approach for diagnosing tapeworm infections. This approach includes treatments such as sedimentation, qualitative flotation, faecal egg counting techniques, or a combination of these principles. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) can detect serum antibodies to antigens present in tapeworm infections. Some ELISAs are even commercially available for laboratory diagnostics. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay can detect tapeworm DNA in faecal samples with high sensitivity. However, large faecal samples may be needed to achieve good diagnostic performance when you are testing your patients.
Treatment Options for Equine Tapeworms
Two anthelmintic treatment options are currently available for tapeworm infections: pyrantel pamoate and praziquantel. The dosage for this treatment is 13.2 mg base/kg of pyrantel pamoate for equine tapeworm treatment or 1 mg/kg of praziquantel for equine tapeworm treatment.
At this time, there has been no anthelmintic resistance reported. However, the currently available diagnostic techniques may overestimate or underestimate anthelmintic efficacy – but this has not yet been scientifically evaluated.
A good amount of scientific evidence exists about equine tapeworm infections, however, more information on the diagnostic techniques is needed to improve treatment efficacy. For the most up-to-date information on how to treat tapeworms in horses, contact your veterinarian and know EPC is here to help with convenient medication options!
– Written in collaboration with Samantha Kenik, Pharm.D., Veterinary Compounding Pharmacist and Drew Olson, DVM, Veterinary Division National Director
