Onchocerca sp. in an imported Zangersheide gelding causing suspensory ligament desmitis |
| |
| Authors: | Kara A Brown Amy L Johnson Susan J Bender Thomas J Nolan Bianca Pfisterer JoAnn Slack Elinor Willis Emily K Rule |
| |
| Institution: | 1. Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania 19348, USA;2. Department of Pathobiology, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania 19348, USA;3. Department of Pathobiology, Ryan Veterinary Hospital, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA |
| |
| 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. |
| |
| Keywords: | infectious parasite ultrasound Warmblood |
|
|
