Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Suspected tick paralysis (Ixodes holocyclus) in a Miniature Horse.
- Journal:
- Australian veterinary journal
- Year:
- 2012
- Authors:
- Tee, S Y & Feary, D J
- Affiliation:
- University Veterinary Teaching Centre Camden · United Kingdom
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A 9-year-old Miniature Horse gelding was brought to the vet because he was very weak and unable to stand, likely due to paralysis caused by ticks (specifically Ixodes holocyclus). After examining him and running some tests, the vet didn't find any other causes for his condition, so they suspected tick paralysis. The horse received a special treatment called tick antiserum and supportive care to help him recover. Over the next two days, he gradually got better and was able to go home without any further issues. The treatment was successful in helping him recover from the paralysis.
Abstract
A 9-year-old Miniature Horse gelding infested with ticks (Ixodes holocyclus) was presented with flaccid motor paralysis causing recumbency. Neurological examination and other diagnostic tests did not identify an alternative aetiology, leading to a presumptive diagnosis of tick paralysis. The gelding was treated with tick antiserum and intensive supportive care. He made a gradual recovery over the 48 h following presentation and was discharged without further complications. This case report describes in detail the clinical signs and successful treatment of a Miniature Horse with flaccid paralysis caused by suspected envenomation by Ixodes holocyclus.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22510077/