Amphotericin B treatment of Candida arthritis in two horses.

This study discusses how two horses with Candida-induced arthritis were successfully treated using Amphotericin B and joint drainage procedures, highlighting the importance of not dismissing fungal infections as mere contaminants.

Introduction

• The study focuses on two cases of horses diagnosed with infectious arthritis caused by Candida species. This type of fungal infection in horses is relatively uncommon and often overlooked.

Methodology and Diagnosis

• The mode of acquisition of the infection varied; in one horse, the infection was directly inoculated, while in the other horse, the mode of acquisition was presumed to be hematogenous – or spread through the bloodstream.
• The diagnosis of Candida arthritis was confirmed by microbial culturing of synovial fluid and synovial membrane samples taken from the affected horses, with the fungus being successfully isolated in both individuals.

Treatment

• The researchers managed to resolve the joint infections in both horses through the intravenous administration of a potent antifungal medication known as amphotericin B, coupled with procedures to drain the affected joints.

Outcomes

• Though the treatment was successful, one of the horses had to be euthanized due to the onset of severe neck pain and progressively worsening ataxia, which is a neurological disorder affecting balance, coordination, and walking ability.

Implication of the Study

• The study underscores the significance of not dismissing fungal organisms isolated from joint specimens as mere contaminants, especially when the same organism is recovered from more than one sample.
• It demonstrates that fungal arthritis can be effectively addressed with the right antifungal treatment and joint drainage.