Hindlimb hyperesthesia associated with rabies in two horses.

This research article investigates two cases of rabies in adult Quarter Horses experiencing hindlimb hyperesthesia and progressive weakness. Using various techniques, the researchers confirmed the presence of rabies in the horses’ hindlimb peripheral nerve specimens and delved into the viral distribution within the body of one horse.

Diagnosis and Symptom Analysis

• The research began with the observation of hindlimb hyperesthesia and progressive weakness in two adult Quarter Horses, symptoms suggestive of a neurological condition.
• Rabies was identified as the cause through a microscopic examination of the cord and brain of the first infected horse. This examination revealed nonsuppurative meningomyelitis and ganglioneuritis in the cord, reaching as far as the 6th cervical segment.

Testing for Rabies

• To confirm the diagnosis, the researchers employed a fluorescent antibody test. This test indicated that both horses had rabies, based on positive results from hindlimb peripheral nerve specimens.
• The same test was used on sections of the upper lip of the horses and turned up negative results.

Detailed Examination of Viral Distribution

• The second stage of the research involved deeper exploration of the viral distribution in one of the infected horses.
• For this purpose, salivary gland, cerebrum, cerebellum, hippocampus, musculocutaneous nerve, cornea, and optic nerve specimens were extracted and examined using the fluorescent antibody technique.
• Though the abstract does not report the specific outcomes of these tests, the aim was presumably to establish a broader understanding of how rabies spreads and affects different parts of the body in horses.