Two techniques for detection of antibodies against Corynebacterium (Rhodococcus) equi in horse sera.

Two techniques were developed to detect antibodies against the exosubstance of C. equi called equi-factor. In the first technique serum samples are tested against native equi-factor produced by the growth of C. equi on agar medium. A positive result is manifested by the development of precipitation lines. The second test is based on neutralization of prepurified equi-factor by antibody, resulting in the inhibition of its hemolytic synergism with staphylococcal beta toxin. Sera (125 samples) from horses of different ages, kept in localities with a history of C. equi infections, were examined. The first technique detected 65.6%, and the second 40% of positive cases.