Cornell Equine is proud to share research news on Borrelia burgdorferi and nuchal bursitis in horses, recently featured in the prestigious 2024 AAEP Kester News Hour. This annual session at the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Convention highlights the most notable equine research of the year, underscoring its impact on veterinary practice.

The Cornell Animal Health Diagnostic Center (AHDC) played a pivotal role in this research, working in collaboration with ENFAH, Tufts University, the University of Pennsylvania’s New Bolton Center, and several northeastern private practices. This multi-institutional effort exemplifies Cornell’s commitment to advancing equine health through cutting-edge diagnostics and clinical partnerships.

Key Findings from the Study:

• Serum OspA antibody values in Borrelia burgdorferi-positive nuchal bursitis cases were significantly elevated compared to controls, with OspA as the predominant antigen detected by the Equine Lyme Multiplex assay.
• Histopathology did not vary between nuchal bursitis cases with and without Borrelia burgdorferi PCR detection.
• Presence of Borrelia burgdorferi in the nuchal bursa is associated with increased serum OspA antibodies, suggesting its role in equine nuchal bursitis may be underestimated. Further research is needed to evaluate targeted therapy options alongside surgical treatment.

Impacting Equine Infectious Disease

In addition to this publication’s recognition, Cornell faculty continue to lead the conversation on equine infectious diseases at the national level. Cornell faculty member, Dr Toby Pinn-Woodcock, serves on the AAEP Equine Infectious Disease Committee and currently chairs the Equine Field Diagnostic Guidelines Subcommittee.

At the 2024 AAEP Convention, this expertise was further shared during a roundtable discussion titled “Updates on Equine Infectious Disease”, co-presented with leading veterinary professionals. These discussions play a crucial role in shaping best practices for equine disease diagnosis and management in the field.

Upcoming Equine Continuing Education Opportunities

Cornell Equine’s impact extends beyond academic research, reaching equine practitioners through continuing education programs. This August, Dr Toby Pinn-Woodcock will present at the Hambletonian Continuing Education Seminar in New Jersey, covering key topics such as:

• Equine Tickborne Disease in the Northeastern United States
• Practical Diagnostics for the Equine Practitioner: Tips for Diagnostic Selection, Interpretation, and Case Examples

Through these presentations, Cornell Equine continues to equip veterinarians with the latest diagnostic insights and practical tools to enhance equine health outcomes.

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