Seroprevalence of Neospora caninum in Camelids: A Global Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Abstract
Background: Neospora caninum is an apicomplexan parasite that causes significant reproductive losses in livestock, particularly cattle, yet its epidemiological impact on camelids remains poorly understood. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled seroprevalence of N. caninum in camelids worldwide and to compare seroprevalence between Old World camels (OWCs) and New World camelids (NWCs).
Methods: A systematic literature search was performed in various international databases from January 1, 2000 to December 20, 2025. Eligible studies reported serological detection of N. caninum antibodies in camelid species with extractable seroprevalence data. Pooled seroprevalence and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model in Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software. Heterogeneity was assessed by the I2 statistic, and subgroup, meta-regression, sensitivity, and publication bias analyses were performed.
Results: Thirty-four studies encompassing 48 datasets met the inclusion criteria, representing 13,784 camelids from 15 countries across five continents. The total dataset included 4,463 OWCs and 9,321 NWCs. The overall pooled seroprevalence of N. caninum in camelids was 9.4% (95% CI: 7.2-12.2%), with substantial heterogeneity among studies (I2 = 93.5%, p < 0.001). The pooled seroprevalence was 14.5% (95% CI: 9.7-21%) for OWCs and 5.8% (95% CI: 4-8.5%) for NWCs. Subgroup analysis demonstrated higher seroprevalence estimates…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in animal, not in people. Its evidence level is 5 of 5 (Very low · case / narrative / animal / in vitro / in silico). Case reports, narrative reviews, and animal, cell or computer-model studies give the weakest evidence for human health.
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