Worldwide Overview of Neospora spp. Infection in Equids Diagnosed by Serological Tests: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Equids can be infected by Neospora spp., and its infection is associated with neurological and reproductive disorders. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the prevalence of anti-Neospora caninum antibodies in horses, donkeys and mules worldwide between 2012 and 2022. Five scientific databases were consulted: MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, PubMed, LILACS and SciELO, using the descriptors “protozoan” or “neospora” AND “horses” or “donkeys” or “mules”. A total of 1909 studies were screened, and 25 studies met the inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of Neospora spp. infection in equids, based on a total of 11,076, was 8.34% (95% CI: 4.78–14.17%). Further analysis by species revealed no statistically significant difference in the prevalence of Neospora spp. infection across equids: 8.5% (95% CI 5.03–13.99%) in horses, 7.36% (CI 2.08–22.94%) in donkeys and 6.07% (95% CI 0.71–36.83%) in mules. Regarding diagnostic tests, the prevalence of Neospora spp. infection determined by the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) was 8.08% (95% CI: 3.74–16.61%), by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was 7.91% (95% CI: 3.71–16.08%), and by the modified agglutination test (MAT) was 20% (95% CI: 15.37–25.60%). This meta-analysis provided valuable and comprehensive insights into the prevalence of Neospora spp. infection in horses, donkeys, and mules using serological detection methods. The results highlight the wide distribution of Neospora spp. infection in equids across all continents, indicating the importance of this infection. Transmission of the parasite can occur both horizontally (directly between animals) and vertically (from mother to offspring), further emphasizing the significance of understanding and managing this infection in equid populations.