Fatal parasite-induced enteritis and typhlocolitis in horses in Southern Brazil.

This research aims to explore and describe the pathological findings of fatal parasite-induced enteritis and typhlocolitis, being the main causes of death in horses. The result of the study is essentially based on the records of horses necropsied in Southern Brazil between 2005 and 2017.

Study Methodology and Findings

• The research is a retrospective study, meaning that it reviews historical records and data of horses with parasite-induced intestinal lesions necropsied in Southern Brazil from the year 2005 to 2017.
• Out of all horses reviewed, ten of them had fatal parasitic enteritis and/or typhlocolitis. Additionally, the major causes of these conditions were found to be cyathostominae typhlocolitis (in 6 of the 10 horses), E. leuckarti enteritis (in 1), S. westeri enteritis (in 1), B. coli colitis in relation to cyathostominae (in 1), and infection by various agents (in 1).

Resulting Pathological Findings

• Cyathostominae typhlocolitis cases displayed notable mucosal thickening with multifocal raised nodules containing tangled filiform parasites. Under microscopic examination, the mucosa and submucosa showed parasitic structures encased by an eosinophilic and granulomatous inflammation.
• E. leuckarti enteritis showed microscopic characteristics of macrogamonts, microgamonts, and oocysts within the host cells.
• S. westeri enteritis displayed microscopic evidence of villi atrophy with several mucosal encysted parasitic structures.
• B. coli typhlocolitis demonstrated severe diffuse mucosal discoloration, which microscopic examination revealed to be superficial mucosal necrosis associated with multiple protozoan trophozoites.

Conclusion

• The research concludes that fatal parasite-induced enteritis and typhlocolitis are significant causes of death in horses in Southern Brazil. It underscores the importance of further research and monitoring of these conditions.