Abstract: Summary: Theileriasis is a protozoan infection of wild and domestic Bovidae which occurs throughout much of the world. The Theileria spp. are transmitted by ixodid ticks and have complex life cycles in both vertebrate host and vector, with sexual reproduction occurring in the tick. The classification and distribution of the different species are reviewed, followed by a description of the pathology, immunology, chemotherapy and control of the important species causing disease in domestic animals. The most widely used method of theileriosis control has involved tick control with acaricides. For many reasons this form of control has become less reliable and with the development of methods of immunisation, vaccination is being used more widely, particularly to control T. annulata. Biological differences between Theileria spp. have dictated different methods of vaccination, with an in vitro cultured schizont infected cell being used for T. annulata and T. hirci, and infection with sporozoites followed by drug treatment for T. parva. These live vaccines have limitations and considerable research is being directed towards identifying parasite antigens which may form the basis of newer killed vaccines. The broad immunising capacity of T. annulata isolates contrasts strongly with the antigenic complexity of T. parva. There is an urgent need for in vitro tests which will distinguish between stocks ofT. parva with different immunising capacities. In view of the relatively limited distribution of T. parva and the importance of the disease it causes, an effective system of information exchange and some co-operation and co-ordination in research towards its control have been instituted. The very wide distribution of T. annulata, and the variety of languages and cultures within its distribution, have limited exchange and co-operation but this situation needs to be corrected.
Publication Year: 1989
Publication Date: 1989-03-01
Language: en
Type: review
Indexed In: ['crossref', 'pubmed']
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Cited By Count: 84
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