Amphotericin B for the treatment of localized subcutaneous phycomycosis in the horse.

This research paper discusses the use of Amphotericin B in treating horses affected by localized subcutaneous phycomycosis, with a satisfactory outcome in most cases. A combination of surgical removal, daily intravenous and local application of the drug has been suggested as an ideal treatment plan.

Objective of the Study

• The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Amphotericin B, both administered locally and systemically, in treating phycomycosis—a fungal infection—in horses.

Methodology and Findings

• A total of 10 horses afflicted with localized subcutaneous phycomycosis were treated with Amphotericin B, administered either systemically (intravenous), locally, or both.
• The results were satisfactory in 8 of the 10 cases, indicating a success rate of 80%. Thus, the study demonstrated that Amphotericin B can be a promising treatment for this condition in horses.
• The intravenous treatment was well-tolerated by the horses, with starting daily dosages averaging at 0.38 mg/kg. This dosage was gradually increased upwards to a maximum of 1.47 mg/kg, demonstrating that the horses could handle higher doses without adverse side effects.

Conclusions and Recommendations

• Based on these findings, the researchers concluded that the optimal treatment regimen for horses with this condition would be a combination of early surgical removal of the lesion and daily administration of Amphotecin B, through both intravenous and topical routes.
• Additionally, the periodic removal of small necrotic (dead tissue) tracts, as needed, was also suggested.
• The series of treatments potentially maximizes therapeutic outcomes, reduces the chance of infection recurrence, and aids in the full recovery of the animal.