Caprine besnoitiosis: an emerging threat and its relationship to some other infections of ungulates by Besnoitia species

• Epidemiology, pathogenesis and clinical features of Besnoitial infection of goats.
• Similarities to, and differences from, Besnoitial parasites of other ungulates, particularly Besnoitia besnoiti of cattle.
• Limitations of current methods of diagnosis and control of B. caprae infection.
• Laboratory models of B. caprae infections.
• The impact of caprine Besnoitial disease on agricultural and associated economies in developing countries.

Caprine besnoitiosis, caused by the cyst-forming protozoal apicomplexan Besnoitia caprae appears to be endemic in Kenya, Nigeria and Iran, but has yet to be detected in other parts of the world. The infection causes an important parasitic disease of goats in affected developing countries. Bovine besnoitiosis, is a widespread disease of cattle in Africa, Asia (but not Iran) and southern Europe. Recent epidemiological data confirm that the incidence and geographical range of bovine besnoitiosis in Europe is increasing, which is why growing attention has been given to the condition during the past decade. This paper reviews pertinent information on the biology, epidemiology, pathology, clinical signs, diagnosis and control of caprine besnoitiosis, together with its similarities to, and differences from, bovine besnoitiosis. The serious economic consequences of besnoitiosis on goat breeding and local meat and hide industries is also considered.