Granulomatous enteritis and cutaneous arteritis in a horse.

The study explores the case of a 5-year-old Quarter Horse mare presenting symptoms of weight loss over two months, which upon examination and analysis is diagnosed with granulomatous enteritis and cutaneous arteritis. These conditions show potential parallels with regional enteritis in humans.

Background of the Study

• The study revolves around the case of a 5-year-old Quarter Horse mare that had been suffering from weight loss for a duration of two months.
• The horse was anemic, in poor body condition, and had multiple areas of cutaneous ulceration, which were located on the muzzle and distal portion of the limbs.

Procedures and Findings

• A rectal mucosa biopsy specimen was taken and examined histologically, which revealed lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate occupying the lamina propria mucosa.
• The horse underwent a glucose absorption test, the results of which suggested malabsorption.
• A biopsy from the cutaneous lesions was also examined histologically, showing evident arteritis along with weak, patchy immunofluorescence staining for immunoglobulins at the basement membrane.

Outcome and Implications

• The horse was initially treated using prednisone; however, there was no improvement in its condition. The decision was made to humanely euthanize the horse.
• A necropsy conducted subsequently revealed the presence of granulomatous enteritis.
• This case draws attention to a rare combination of clinical issues and provides additional evidence to suggest similarities between equine granulomatous enteritis and regional enteritis in human beings.