Determination of Systemic Inflammation and Diagnostic Markers Using Iron Parameters in Foals Infected with Rhodococcus equi

Authors : Ömer Deniz, Bediha Atak

Pages : 273-279

Doi:10.30607/kvj.1714620

View : 58 | Download : 78

Publication Date : 2025-10-03

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Rhodococcus equi is a significant respiratory pathogen in foals, particularly those under six months of age. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of R. equi infection on serum iron (Fe), unsaturated iron-binding capacity (UIBC), and fibrinogen (Fbg) concentrations. Fifteen foals with confirmed R. equi pneumonia and ten healthy control foals were included. Infected foals were treated with oral azithromycin and rifampicin for 15 days. Samples were collected on days 0, 7, and 14, and Fe, UIBC, and Fbg levels were analyzed. Statistical analysis showed significantly higher UIBC and Fbg levels in the infected group at the start of treatment compared to controls (p=0.004 and p<0.001, respectively). Serum Fe levels did not differ significantly between groups (p=0.138), though a trend toward lower levels in infected foals was noted, reflecting the inflammatory response. Changes in UIBC and Fbg levels reflect the progression of infection and response to treatment. Among the parameters evaluated, fibrinogen appears to be the most reliable biomarker for monitoring systemic inflammation during R. equi pneumonia in foals. However, the diagnostic value of iron parameters warrants further investigation with larger sample sizes and time-point-specific analyses.
Keywords : At, Demir, Doymamış Demir Bağlama Kapasitesi

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