Ovarian Hydrobursitis in Dromedary Camels: Current Understanding and Future Perspectives

Ovarian hydrobursitis (OVHB) is a serious reproductive disorder that has been described predominantly in dromedary camels, characterized by fluid accumulation within the ovarian bursa and complete encapsulation of the ovary. Among female camels presented for reproductive examination, OVHB is a frequent diagnosis and has been associated with infertility, embryonic loss, abortion, and culling; however, these estimates derive from selected populations, and true population prevalence and attributable impact remain unknown. This review summarizes more than a decade of investigations into the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of OVHB. Among female camels presented for reproductive examination, OVHB accounts for approximately 16.5–33.8% of infertility cases, while slaughterhouse surveys report a prevalence of 4.8–6.5% in slaughtered females. These figures derive from different study populations and should not be interpreted as directly comparable estimates of population prevalence. The unique anatomy of the camel ovary, which is completely enclosed within a fused mesosalpinx, mesovarium, and proper ligament, appears to predispose affected animals to fluid retention within the bursa. Multiple lines of Serological, molecular, and microbiological evidence strongly implicate Chlamydia abortus (C. abortus) as the principal pathogen associated with OVHB; however, definitive causation remains unproven pending experimental infection studies. However, experimental reproduction of the disease has not yet been achieved, and definitive causality remains unconfirmed. Current treatment options are limited. Surgical ablation may restore fertility in selected unilateral cases, whereas medical therapy is effective only in small bursae. Bilateral and advanced cases generally have a poor prognosis and are commonly culled. Consequently, prevention is likely to represent the most sustainable long-term control strategy. Ongoing investigations of camel-derived C. abortus isolates are improving our understanding of pathogen diversity and may support the future development of preventive interventions. Further studies are required to clarify disease causation and establish effective control measures.