Successful treatment of intracranial abscesses in 2 horses.

The article discusses a case report from the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine detailing the treatment of intracranial abscesses in horses. This specific excerpt sheds light on the analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from a colt, indicating a normal cell count but with an increased percentage of neutrophils. Following general anesthesia, the colt recovered without complications. The bacterial culture of the CSF tested negative for any infection.

Background

• Researchers studied and successfully treated two horses with intracranial abscesses, using computed tomography (CT) and surgical interventions.
• Several reports have previously described intracranial abscesses in horses, with many of these cases ending in poor outcomes.
• One exceptional case involved a horse with a cerebral abscess diagnosed using CT and treated via craniotomy.
• CT has transformed the diagnosis and localization of intracranial abscesses in humans, enabling surgical treatments like excision or stereotactic drainage.
• Accurate early diagnosis, combined with long-term antibiotics, has greatly reduced mortality and neurological issues associated with intracranial abscesses.

Case Details: Horse 1

• A 3-month-old Hanovarian colt was referred after experiencing a seizure.
• The colt had become acutely ataxic a day prior, with an injury suspected to be from a kick to the head.
• Initial treatments included dexamethasone, flunixin meglumine, and DMSO, which improved the colt’s condition temporarily.
• Upon admission to Michigan State University’s Veterinary Hospital, the colt showed depression, ataxia, and other symptoms. An open wound was also noted.
• Radiography indicated a fracture in the parietal bone.
• The colt was treated with antibiotics, pain relief, and IV fluids. Its condition improved over several days, but some symptoms remained.
• CT scans on the 7th day post-admission revealed more about the injury’s extent, including a significant fracture and potential abscess.
• Cerebrospinal fluid analysis was within normal parameters, but with an increased neutrophil percentage. The colt showed no adverse effects post-anesthesia, and no bacterial presence was detected in the CSF.