Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Gelding with leg swelling and lameness diagnosed with Onchocerca
By Brown, Kara A et al.·Published in Journal of veterinary internal medicine·2023·Department of Clinical Studies, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Onchocerca sp. in an imported Zangersheide gelding causing suspensory ligament desmitis.
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A 5-year-old Zangersheide gelding was brought in for swelling in both front legs and lameness in the lower leg. Ultrasound showed masses that were likely caused by a parasitic infection, and a biopsy confirmed the presence of Onchocerca sp. (a type of parasitic worm). The horse was treated with ivermectin and a steroid medication, but unfortunately, he was later euthanized due to severe damage to the ligaments caused by the infection. This case highlights the importance of considering parasitic infections in horses with similar symptoms, especially in imported breeds.
People also search for: horse leg swelling treatment · Zangersheide gelding lameness · Onchocerca infection in horses
Abstract
A 5-year-old imported Zangersheide gelding was evaluated for SC swellings over both forelimbs and lameness localized to the distal metacarpus. Ultrasound examination of the SC masses was compatible with verminous granulomas. Linear hyperechoic foci were present within the suspensory ligament branches of both forelimbs, suggestive of ligamentous parasitic infiltrates. A diagnosis of onchocerciasis was confirmed on biopsy of a SC mass. The gelding was treated with ivermectin and a tapering course of PO dexamethasone but was eventually euthanized. Necropsy confirmed the presence of SC eosinophilic granulomas and degenerative suspensory ligament desmitis, both with intralesional nematodes. Given the location and appearance of the nematode, a diagnosis of Onchocerca sp., most likely O. reticulata, was made. Onchocerciasis should be included as a differential diagnosis for multifocal suspensory ligament desmitis with these sonographic characteristics when paired with SC masses in imported European Warmbloods.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36821075/