A herd outbreak of equine leukoencephalomalacia.

The research examines an outbreak of Equine leukoencephalomalacia (ELEM), a fungal disease, in a group of horses, investigating its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

Introduction

Equine leukoencephalomalacia (ELEM) impacted a group of horses at a boarding facility, with a 60% infection rate and a mortality rate of over 66% amongst the infected horses. The researchers investigated the cause, treatment, and potential preventative measures for this fungal disease that has high fatality rates.

Cause

• The primary cause of the equine outbreak was identified as the ingestion of infected ear corn. The corn was found to be contaminated with Fusarium moniliforme, a common mold that often infects corn.
• The Fusarium fungus produces fumonisins as secondary metabolites, with types B1, B2, and B3 isolated from the corn sample. These fumonisins are known toxins that cause ELEM in horses.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

• The affected horses exhibited clinical signs of ELEM which led to their diagnosis. The exact symptoms are not detailed in the abstract.
• Unfortunately, four out of the six infected horses either died naturally or were euthanized due to disease progression. The remaining two, however, survived with complete resolution of symptoms after treatment.

Treatment Regimen

• Treatment was primarily supportive and aimed at reducing inflammation and cerebral edema (swelling in the brain).
• The horses were administered a combination of dimethyl sulfoxide, dexamethasone, flunixin meglumine, and thiamine. These medications work as anti-inflammatory agents and are used to decrease or prevent brain swelling.
• Two out of three horses that received this treatment completely recovered, indicating that this may be a beneficial approach to managing this condition.

Conclusion

• Overall, the study highlights the danger of Fusarium-contaminated feed, particularly for susceptible horse populations.
• The researchers advocate for careful monitoring of feed sources to prevent such outbreaks and for prompt medical treatment if symptoms of ELEM are observed.