Detection of Babesia spp. infection in Philippine racing horses by light microscopy and immunochromatographic test

Date of Publication

2008

Document Type

Bachelor's Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Biology

Subject Categories

Biology

College

College of Science

Department/Unit

Biology

Thesis Adviser

Mary Jane Cruz-Flores

Defense Panel Chair

Josefina B. De Jesus

Abstract/Summary

A newly developed immunochromatographic test (ICTBec) was used in the simultaneous detection of Babesia spp. infection in Philippine racing horses. This highly specific ICTBec was developed using a recombinant B. caballi 48-kDa rhoptry protein (rBc48) and a recombinant truncated B. equi merozoite antigen 2 (rEMA-2t) as antigens that react with antibodies present in the blood sera. An overall infection rate of 66.67% was detected in 33 horses. Out of the 22 infected horses (22/33), 20 representing 60.61% were detected with B. caballi infection. Two (6.06%) had mixed infections of both B. caballi and B. equi, while none were found to be infected with B. equi alone. Of the 22 infected horses, 9 were males and 13 were females. Microscopic examination of Giemsastained thin blood smears was used to detect the presence of Babesia spp. in erythrocytes. B. caballi was described as crescent-shaped, tear-drop, or paired pear-shaped merozoites connected at their posterior ends. Meanwhile, Babesia spp. merozoites were seen to have a tetrad formation or Maltese cross. In the absence of other serological and molecular test in the detection of babesiosis and the subjectivity of microscopic examination of blood smears, it is strongly recommended that the ICT be used as a primary test for the detection of Babesia spp. infection in horses.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Accession Number

CDTU013934

Shelf Location

Archives, The Learning Commons, 12F, Henry Sy Sr. Hall

Physical Description

1 computer disc ; 4 3/4 in.

Keywords

Babesiosis in horses--Philippines; Horses—Diseases--Philippines

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Embargo Period

3-17-2021

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