Mal seco, a grass sickness-like syndrome of horses in Argentina.

This research article discusses Mal seco, a syndrome similar to grass sickness observed in horses located mostly in Patagonia, Argentina. The cause of Mal seco is unknown, but appears to affect horses grazing on natural pastures without any supplementary feeding. The condition is clinically characterized by total or partial bowel stasis and affects the nervous system.

Clinical Features of Mal seco

• Mal seco is a syndrome observed in horses in Argentina, similar to the grass sickness disease.
• Most cases are reported in Patagonia, Argentina, with some cases also reported in other provinces and in southern Chile.
• The condition is typically observed in horses that graze on natural pastures without receiving any supplementary feeding, suggesting a potential link between the disease and the animal’s diet.
• Clinical symptoms are characterized by total or partial bowel stasis, indicating a major effect on the digestive system of the affected horses.

Aetiology and Pathology of Mal seco

• The exact cause or aetiology of mal seco remains undiscovered. Studies show that it might be linked to grazing habits and diet, but no concrete evidence has been found.
• Post-mortem examinations have provided further insight into the effects of the disease on the horse’s body.
• The most evident changes due to mal seco are found in the bowel, which align with the clinical symptoms of bowel stasis.
• The condition also causes degenerative changes in the nervous system, specifically in the coeliaco-mesenteric ganglia and other central and peripheral structures. This aspect of the disease indicates an extensive impact beyond the digestive system, affecting the overall neurological health of the horse.

Implications and Future Research

• Given its potential to affect horses’ health severely, understanding the cause and treatment of mal seco is important for managing equine health, particularly in regions where the disease is prevalent.
• Future research should focus on identifying the aetiology of the disease, understanding its effect on the nervous system, and developing effective treatments or preventative measures.