Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Clostridial myonecrosis, haemolytic anaemia, hepatopathy, osteitis and transient hypertrophic cardiomyopathy after intramuscular injection in a Thoroughbred gelding.
- Journal:
- Australian veterinary journal
- Year:
- 2013
- Authors:
- Anderson, F L et al.
- Affiliation:
- Murdoch University School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences · Australia
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A 9-year-old Thoroughbred gelding was brought to the vet because he had swelling on the left side of his neck and was eating less than usual. This happened after he received an injection of a medication in that area. Upon examination, the vet found signs of muscle inflammation, anemia (a low red blood cell count), and dark urine. Tests showed a heavy growth of a type of bacteria called Clostridium, which caused several serious complications, including liver problems, bone inflammation, and temporary heart issues. The horse was treated with fluids, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, a blood transfusion, and surgery to clean the infected area. Thankfully, all his health issues resolved completely, and he was able to return to work.
Abstract
A 9-year-old Thoroughbred gelding was presented for swelling over the left neck and inappetence. There was recent history of intramuscular administration of flunixin meglumine into the left neck. On examination, there was evidence of focal myositis, anaemia, haemolysis and pigmenturia. Culture of aspirated fluid from the left side of the neck produced a heavy growth of a Clostridium species. Complications of infection included haemolytic anaemia, hepatopathy, osteitis and transient hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Treatment included intravenous fluid therapy, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, blood transfusion and surgical debridement. There was complete resolution of clinical, haematological, biochemical and echocardiographic abnormalities, and the horse returned to ridden work. This report highlights the complications that can arise from clostridial myonecrosis, including the effect on the myocardium.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23614516/