59 Equine Samples Submitted for DNA-Based Evaluation of Infection

Introduction: Our hypothesis was a DNA-based, MicroGen, sample evaluation for bacterial and fungal isolates would alter the course of treatment, improve the resolution of infection, and improve outcome.

Materials and Methods: Records from January 2020 to the present included all equine samples submitted to MicroGen. Data included bacterial, fungal, and traditional culture and sensitivity results from identical samples. Results of MicroGen testing were evaluated to determine if findings altered the course of treatment and ultimately improved the outcome. Descriptive statistics were used due to low numbers.

Results: Fifty-four horses had 59 samples submitted for a DNA-based evaluation (MicroGen) of infection during this time. Thirty samples were also submitted for traditional culture and sensitivity. The majority 63% of the MicroGen samples had similar results to traditional culture and sensitivity methods. Twenty-seven per cent of bacterial infections would have been missed if evaluated, by traditional culture and sensitivity alone. All (100%) of fungal samples would have been missed by traditional culture and sensitivity alone. In 85% of cases, Microgen testing altered the course of antibiotic or fungal therapy and improved the resolution of infection. In 62% of cases, MicroGen testing improved the outcome by changing the course of treatment.

Discussion/Conclusion: MicroGen sample testing may be warranted in cases on broad-spectrum antibiotics with negative traditional culture results or the suspicion of a fungal infection.

Acknowledgment

None.

Publication History

Article published online:
15 July 2025