Isolation of Actinobacillus lignieresii from enlarged tongue of a horse.

The study explores a case where Actinobacillus lignieresii, typically associated with ‘wooden tongue’ in cattle, was found in a horse, resulting in a similar syndrome. The use of sodium iodide and antibiotics successfully treated the condition.

Details of the Case

• A horse was identified with an enlarged tongue, exhibiting symptoms similar to the ‘wooden tongue’ syndrome more commonly seen in cattle. The syndrome is typically caused by the bacteria Actinobacillus lignieresii.
• Treating the horse revealed the presence of Actinobacillus lignieresii, generally uncommon in horses, confirming its association with the syndrome.

Diagnosis and Treatment

• The diagnosis was based on cytologic examination and culture. Cytologic examination involves the study of cell structure and its abnormalities.
• Furthermore, a culture of the microorganism was grown to verify the presence of the bacteria.
• The horse was treated using systemic sodium iodide and antibiotics, a treatment approach considered prompt and supportive.
• Significantly, the horse responded rapidly to this treatment, demonstrating its effectiveness.

Implications and Recommendations

• Based on this evidence, the study asserts the importance of immediate treatment with sodium iodide if actinobacillosis – the infection caused by the Actinobacillus species – is suspected.
• In addition to medication, supportive therapy also plays a significant role in recovery.
• Although the condition is rare in horses, this study highlights the necessity for veterinarians to consider actinobacillosis in their differential diagnosis when similar symptoms are observed.