Prevalence of antibodies to Encephalitozoon cuniculi (microsporidia) in angora goats--a potential risk of infection for breeders.

Abstract

The presence of antibodies against Encephalitozoon cuniculi in Angora goats was detected by the method of indirect immunofluorescence (IFAT). The animals reacting at the titre 1: 64 and more were considered positive. Of the total number of 48 sera examined, 4 were positive at the titre 1: 32 and 2 were positive at the titre 1: 64. The occurrence of antibodies against E. cuniculi indicates that one of the causes of disorders in the reproductive cycle in Angora goats may be microsporidia Encephalitozoon cuniculi, and that these animals may be potential sources of infection for people.