Neospora caninum infection associated with stillbirths in captive antelopes (Tragelaphus imberbis)

Vet Parasitol. 2001 May 22;97(2):153-7. doi: 10.1016/s0304-4017(01)00401-0.

Abstract

Neosporosis was diagnosed in full-term stillborn twin calves of captive antelopes (Tragelaphus imberbis) in a German zoo. In both calves a multifocal non-suppurative encephalitis was present and infection with Neospora (N.) caninum was confirmed by foetal serology and PCR. N. caninum-DNA was detected in brain, heart, lung, liver and spleen of a third full-term stillborn calf. Histopathological lesions were absent in this calf and antibodies against N. caninum were not detected in pleural fluid. Immunohistochemistry failed to demonstrate N. caninum antigen in all three calves.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antelopes*
  • Antibodies, Protozoan / analysis
  • Antigens, Protozoan / analysis
  • Coccidiosis / complications
  • Coccidiosis / veterinary*
  • Encephalitis / parasitology
  • Encephalitis / veterinary
  • Female
  • Fetal Death / etiology
  • Fetal Death / veterinary*
  • Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect / veterinary
  • Molecular Weight
  • Neospora*
  • Pleural Effusion / parasitology
  • Pleural Effusion / veterinary
  • Water / parasitology

Substances

  • Antibodies, Protozoan
  • Antigens, Protozoan
  • Water