Abstract
Trypanosoma equiperdum is a protozoan parasite recognized as the etiological agent of dourine, a debilitating and often fatal venereal disease that affects only equids. Dourine has historically exerted a substantial impact on equine populations globally, influencing both animal health and the socio-economic stability of communities reliant on equids for transportation, agriculture, and cultural activities. Unlike most pathogenic trypanosomes, which require invertebrate vectors for transmission, T. equiperdum is transmitted directly through coitus between infected and susceptible animals. This unique transmission mode has shaped the epidemiology and control strategies for dourine, distinguishing it from other trypanosomoses. This review consolidates current knowledge on Trypanosoma equiperdum , integrating recent research to provide an updated understanding of its taxonomy, biology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, control, epidemiology, and socio-economic impact.