[The case of the nematode Setaria equina found in the vaginal sac of the stallion’s scrotum].

This study explores the unusual case of the nematode Setaria equina found in the vaginal sac of a stallion’s scrotum, where it typically does not reside, and the associated complications such as pain, edema, inflammation, and necrosis.

About the Study

• The study investigated an uncommon site of infestation of the nematode Setaria equina. Traditionally, these parasites live in body cavities where they often do not cause any clinical symptoms. On rare occasions, they may find their way into body parts like the scrotum or spermatic cord, causing pain and edema.
• The primary objective was to describe an unusual instance where this nematode was found in the vaginal sac of a stallion’s scrotum.

Research Methodology

• The researchers conducted a detailed examination of 50 removed testicles from 25 slaughtered stallions.
• The horses used in this study were obtained post-slaughter from a local slaughterhouse close to Krakow.

Results of the Study

• Findings revealed an unusual case where two female Setaria equina parasites, measuring 80mm and 110mm in length, were attached to the surface of the stallion’s testicle.
• A portion of one nematode was found lodged in the space between the testicle surface and the epididymis, a tube at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm cells.
• On examining the sections of the testicle, chronic inflammation known as orchitis chronica and focal necrosis perivascularis, a particular type of tissue death surrounding the blood vessels, were identified. These pathological findings suggested the presence of nematode might have caused discomfort and harm in the host organism.