A cream containing omega-3-fatty acids, humectants and emollients as an aid in the treatment of equine Culicoides hypersensitivity.

The researchers investigated the efficiency of a cream composed of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), humectants and emollients in treating equine Culicoides hypersensitivity, a prevalent allergic skin condition in horses. It was observed that regular application of this cream significantly improved the skin lesions caused by Culicoides hypersensitivity, while its effect on itching was less profound.

Objective and Methodology

• The aim of the study was to examine the impact of a cream, consisting of PUFAs, humectants, and emollients, on the clinical manifestations of equine Culicoides hypersensitivity in horses.
• 28 privately owned horses exhibiting signs of Culicoides hypersensitivity were selected for the study. For four weeks, one side of each horse’s body was randomly selected to be treated with the cream. This cream included concentrated fish oil and various moisturizing and softening components.
• The effects of the cream on skin lesions were assessed in a single-blind design. In the proceeding four weeks, the cream was applied to the lesional areas across the whole body to judge its effect on pruritus (itchiness).
• Other factors considered included the quality of the horse’s hair coat, any adverse effects, and an overall assessment of the horse’s condition.

Results

• Out of the initial 28, 21 horses completed the study. Compared to the untreated side, skin lesions on the treated side demonstrated significant improvement between day 0 and day 28 (P < 0.0001).
• The pruritus scores and the quality of the horse’s coat, however, didn’t show significant improvement between the beginning and the end of the study day 56.
• An overall improvement in the condition of the horses was noted during the course of the study.
• Five horses exhibited adverse effects from the treatment.

Conclusion

• Topically applied cream composed of PUFAs, humectants, and emollients was found to improve Culicoides-induced skin lesions in horses significantly.
• The cream’s anti-pruritic effects, however, weren’t as effective and require further research for effective itch management in horses with Culicoides hypersensitivity.