Bacterial pathogens associated with equine endometriosis: mechanisms and prevention

Endometriosis is a severe and chronic degenerative disease commonly associated with endometritis. It is characterized by fibrosis of the endometrium and cystic dilation of endometrial glands. In mares, endometriosis is a leading cause of infertility and can result in significant economic losses in horse breeding populations. While the exact etiology of endometriosis remains multifactorial and incompletely understood, histopathological changes in the endometrium are considered as pathogonomic feature. Various bacterial strains have been implicated in causing endometritis in mares, with Escherichia coli being the most frequently isolated uterine bacterium. The aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive overview of endometriosis in mares, with a specific focus on the common bacterial mediators associated with the disease. Understanding the role of these bacterial mediators is crucial for the development of effective preventive, and management strategies in equine reproductive health.