How to Test for Dourine in Horses: Essential Knowledge for Equine Health

Dourine, a deadly venereal disease caused by Trypanosoma equiperdum, threatens equine health and breeding programs worldwide. Early and accurate detection is critical to control outbreaks. This guide explores modern diagnostic approaches, with a focus on antibody-based testing using the Dourine Ab Test.

Why Test For Dourine?

High Contagion Risk: Spreads through mating or contaminated equipment

Progressive Fatality: Untreated cases lead to paralysis and death

Economic Impact: Causes major losses to stud farms and racing stables

When To Test?

Pre-breeding screenings

Import/export certifications

Outbreak investigations

Routine herd health checks

Testing Procedure (Using Rapid Antibody Kits)

1. Equilibrate

Bring the test kit, sample, and buffer solution to room temperature (15–25°C) for 10 minutes.

2. Prepare Sample

Specimen Types: Serum, plasma, or whole blood

Whole Blood: Collect with an anticoagulant tube and use immediately. If anticoagulated whole blood is not immediately tested, it should be refrigerated at 2 - 8°C and used within 24 hours.

Serum: Collect with a collection tube (without anticoagulants). Allow blood to clot and centrifuge to obtain serum supernatant. Refrigerate at 2 - 8°C for up to one week. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.

Plasma: Collect with a collection tube (with anticoagulants). Centrifuge to obtain plasma. Refrigerate at 2 - 8°C for up to one week.For longer storage, freezing is recommended.

Frozen Sample Handling (serum/plasma): Frozen sample should be thawed to room temperature (15 - 25°C) before use. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles as they may affect sample integrity

3. Apply Sample:

Transfer 1 drop (using a capillary dropper) of the treated sample into the sample well.

Transfer 3 drops (using a disposable dropper) of the assay buffer into the sample well.

Start the timer. Wait for 5 to 10 minutes to read the result

4. Result Interpretation

•Positive: Both the Control (C) line and Test (T) line appear. Faint T-lines are considered positive if the C line is visible.

•Negative: Only the C line appears.

•Invalid: No C line appears. Repeat the test with a new kit and fresh sample.

By following these steps, stakeholders can effectively detect dourine, safeguard equine health, and mitigate economic losses in the industry.