Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Maggots helped treat a horse's stubborn skin infection
By Dillmann, Janaína Brand et al.·Published in Veterinary parasitology, regional studies and reports·2026·Programa de Pó, Brazil·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Adjunctive use of Maggot Debridement Therapy in the treatment of equine cutaneous pythiosis: A case report.
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A 5-year-old Criollo mare was treated for a stubborn skin lesion near her left hock caused by a serious infection called equine cutaneous pythiosis. Traditional treatments, including surgery and immunotherapy, weren't working, so the vet tried Maggot Debridement Therapy (MDT) using disinfected fly larvae. After two sessions of MDT, the dead tissue was effectively removed, and the mare's wound began to heal. With continued immunotherapy, she eventually achieved complete healing and even regrew her hair. This case shows that MDT can be a helpful option for tough skin infections in horses.
People also search for: horse skin infection treatment · equine pythiosis management · maggot therapy for horses
Abstract
Equine cutaneous pythiosis, caused by Pythium insidiosum, is a severe disease in tropical and subtropical regions, often leading to progressive granulomatous lesions with poor response to conventional therapies. Standard treatment includes surgical excision and immunotherapy, but recurrence is common, particularly in distal limb lesions. Maggot Debridement Therapy (MDT) with disinfected Lucilia cuprina larvae provides selective debridement, microbial control, and stimulation of granulation, representing a potential adjunctive option. This report describes the successful use of MDT combined with immunotherapy in a 5-year-old Criollo mare with a refractory lesion near the left hock. Despite surgical curettage and Pitium-Vac® immunotherapy, the lesion progressed until two MDT applications were performed. Rapid debridement was achieved, with effective removal of necrotic tissue including kunkers, resolution of exudation, and stimulation of granulation tissue formation. Continued immunotherapy led to complete wound healing and hair regrowth. These findings highlight MDT as a valuable, minimally invasive adjunct in equine pythiosis management, warranting further investigation.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41819953/