Glanders or farcy, caused by Burkholderia mallei, is an infectious and
zoonotic disease of solipeds. Horses, donkeys and mules are the only known natural reservoir of B. mallei. Although
glanders has been eradicated from most countries, it has regained the status of a re-emerging disease because of the numerous recent outbreaks. Pre-symptomatic or carrier animals are the potential source of
infection for the healthy equine population and play a crucial role in the spreading of the infectious agent.
Glanders is characterized by ulcerating nodular lesions of the skin and mucous membrane. Generalized symptoms include
fever, malaise, depression,
cough,
anorexia and
weight loss. Burkholderia mallei can invade its host through mucous membranes, gastrointestinal tract and the integument. Its virulence mechanisms and pathogenesis are not yet completely understood. A major problem when using serological tests for diagnosing
glanders is the occurrence of false-positive and false-negative results leading to difficulties in international trade with equids and to the spread of
glanders to disease-free regions. Moreover, poor tests critically result in poor control of disease. These tests are not only incapable of discriminating between B. mallei and B. pseudomallei
antibodies, they are also unable to differentiate between malleinized and naturally infected animals. Combined use of both serological and molecular detection methods increases the detection rate of
glanders. Countermeasures against
glanders include early detection of disease in susceptible animals, stringent quarantine measures, testing and safe destruction of infected carcasses, adequate compensation to the animal owners, disinfection of infected premises and awareness about
glanders and the zoonotic implications through veterinary extension services. An account of the clinical picture and successful
experimental therapy of spontaneous equine
glanders is also given.