Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Mare with fever and weakness recovered from equine herpesvirus
By Mannini, A et al.·Published in Journal of equine veterinary science·2024·Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences (DIMEVET), Italy·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Medical management and positive outcome after prolonged recumbency in a case of equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy.
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A 17-year-old mare was brought in with a high fever, weakness, and trouble urinating, and was diagnosed with equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM). She became unable to stand and developed additional issues like bladder infections and pressure sores. The vet provided fluids, medications, and used a support sling to help her recover. After 34 days, her neurological symptoms improved, and she was sent home with some lingering weakness. At an eight-month follow-up, she showed significant improvement in her ability to move around.
People also search for: horse fever and weakness · equine herpesvirus treatment · mare unable to stand recovery · bladder infection in horses · horse ataxia treatment
Abstract
A 17-year-old mare presenting with acute fever, weakness and bladder dysfunction was diagnosed with equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM). The mare become transiently recumbent, underwent parenteral fluid therapy, plasma infusion, steroidal/nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (SAID/NSAIDs) and bladder catheterization. After 10 days the mare was hospitalized. Neurological evaluation revealed ataxia and proprioceptive deficits mainly in the hind limbs. The mare was able to stand but unable to rise from recumbency or walk. Secondary complications included Escherichia coli cystitis, corneal ulcers and pressure sores. A full-body support sling was used for 21 days. Medical treatment included systemic antimicrobials, NSAIDs, gradual discontinuation of SAIDs, parenteral fluid therapy and bladder lavage. The mare tested positive for Varicellovirus equidalpha 1 (EHV-1) DNA in nasal swab and blood samples on day 13 and in urine samples on days 13 and 25 after the onset of fever. Neurological signs improved over a period of 34 days and the mare was discharged with mild hind limb weakness/ataxia. Secondary complications resolved within 2 weeks. At the eight-month follow-up, marked improvement in locomotory function had been achieved.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38608970/