Diffusion of horse small strongyles in Italy: Prevalence and molecular identification [Diffusione dei piccolistrongili del cavallo in Italia: Prevalenza e identificazione molecolare]

A broad scale survey was carried out in 2008 to evaluate the prevalence and species-specific distribution of Cyathostominae populations in horse yards in Italy. A total of 60 yards and 1646 horses were included in the study. Faecal samples collected from the animals were examined using the McMaster technique and pooled faeces were subjected to a Reverse Line Blot (RLB) assay capable of identifying the most widespread 13 species of cyathostomins. All yards were positive for the presence of cyathostomins using the McMaster technique. One thousand one hundred ten horses (67.5%) showed a positive faecal egg count: 694 (42.2%) showed an egg per gram (epg) value >150. The molecular results showed that all 13 species that can be detected by the RLB were found in Italy, with a range of species present in individual yards of 3-13. The 6 most prevalent species were Cylicostephanus longibursatus, Cylicocyclus nassatus, Cyathostomum catinatum, Cylicostephanus goldi, Cyathostomum pateratum and Cylicocyclus insigne. The results of this survey, the largest ever carried out in Italy, are discussed together with parasitological aspects and practical implications.