Rhodococcus equi (rtPCR) - Equine
The Rhodococcus equi real-time polymerase chain reaction (rtPCR) test is a highly sensitive and specific diagnostic tool used to detect the DNA of Rhodococcus equi, a bacterium responsible for causing pneumonia and other systemic infections in foals. R. equi primarily affects young foals aged 1-6 months and is commonly found in soil and the environment of equine facilities. The bacterium targets the respiratory system, leading to clinical signs such as fever, coughing, nasal discharge, difficulty breathing, and lethargy. It can also cause abscess formation in internal organs, joint infections, and gastrointestinal disease. The rtPCR test rapidly identifies R. equi DNA in tracheal wash samples or other biological specimens, making it an invaluable diagnostic tool, especially during the early stages of infection or in asymptomatic foals at risk. Unlike traditional bacterial culture, rtPCR provides faster results with high accuracy, enabling early intervention with appropriate antimicrobial therapies. This test is particularly useful for monitoring foals in endemic farms or during outbreaks, helping to prevent severe disease and reduce mortality rates.
One or more of the following: moist swabs of the affected areas (nasal exudate swab) or 2 ml of Pleural fluid/Tracheal wash/Transtracheal wash
Moist swabs are preferred; it is recommended to add 1-2 drops of sterile saline to the swab and place in a sterile, leak-proof container (e.g. red top tube)
Collect an adequate amount of Pleural fluid/Tracheal wash/Transtracheal wash in a plain red top tub
Refrigerate sample at 4oC until shipment.
Label each sample with the animal’s name and a unique identifier, using a permanent marker or a secure adhesive label
Ensure the submittal form is completed with the animal’s information and relevant medical history.
Giguère, S., et al. "Advances in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Rhodococcus equi Infections in Foals." Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 2021.
Berghaus, L.J., et al. "Utility of Real-Time PCR for the Early Detection of Rhodococcus equi in Foals." Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice, 2022.
Prescott, J.F., et al. "Molecular Diagnostics for Rhodococcus equi in Equine Practice: Applications and Limitations." Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation, 2023.