Detection of Pathogenic Leptospira DNA in Cervicovaginal Mucus of Mares With Reproductive Disorders in a Brazilian Herd.

Abstract

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease caused by pathogenic bacteria of the genus Leptospira. A lesser-known form, equine genital leptospirosis (EGL), has been identified as a chronic and often silent infection involving the colonisation of the mare's genital tract. Despite its potential impact, EGL remains underdiagnosed and poorly understood, particularly in its association with reproductive inefficiency. This study showed the presence of Leptospira spp. DNA by lipL32-PCR in the genital tract of mares with a history of reproductive disturbances. Cervicovaginal mucus samples were collected from 120 adult mares exhibiting recent reproductive problems. Results showed that 30 (25%) of the mares tested positive for Leptospira DNA. Among these 30 positive cases, 23.3% had experienced abortions, 3.3% had stillbirths, 53.3% showed placental alterations, and 36.6% were subfertile. These findings suggest a possible association between EGL and reproductive disorders in mares. The high detection rate of Leptospira DNA in genital samples reinforces the need for increased awareness and improved diagnostic efforts.