Suspensory Ligament Desmitis Caused by Onchocerca sp. in Three Donkeys.

This research paper describes a case of three donkeys suffering from advanced lameness due to breakdown of the suspensory ligament in their limbs, caused by an infection with a species of the parasite Onchocerca, which had not been previously reported in veterinary literature.

Introduction and Clinical Presentation

• The paper starts with the presentation of three donkeys suffering from progressive lameness due to breakdown in the suspensory ligament. The location of this lameness was found to be in their distal limbs.
• Treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs was attempted but it was only partially effective. The condition continued to worsen until the decision was made to euthanize the donkeys to prevent more suffering.

Necropsy and Histopathologic Examination

• Post-mortem examination revealed definite indicators of disease in the suspensory ligaments. These were noticeably thickened and displayed abnormal coloration. Furthermore, in one case, the cause of the condition was visually identified as adult Onchocerca sp. nematodes sat embedded within the ligaments.
• A histopathologic analysis confirmed that the cause for the chronic inflammation was indeed the adult Onchocerca sp. nematodes. It also reported that this inflammation had led to fibrosis (the formation of excess fibrous connective tissue).
• The complexity of the damage was further apparent as additional conditions like osseous and cartilaginous metaplasia (transformation of tissue into bone or cartilage) were also found.

Conclusion and Significance of the Findings

• The report concludes that this study is the first of its kind as this specific occurrence, where Onchocerca sp. parasite triggers a breakdown in the suspensory ligament of donkeys leading to lameness, has not been described in historical veterinary literature.
• This conclusion suggests that similar situations in the future may be anticipated and effectively treated if caught early, thereby advancing the veterinary knowledge and treatment for all donkeys.