Treatment of lungworm infestation in horses.

This study focuses on the treatment of lungworm infestation in horses, particularly in Australia where incidence rates of lungworm parasitism are unknown. The donkey is known to regularly host lungworms without displaying ill effects, potentially spreading the parasites to horses. The research explores the efficacy of a broad-spectrum anthelmintic, Mebendazole, in treating lungworm infections, illustrated through a case study involving two horse yearlings.

Significance of Dictyocaulus Arnfieldi in Horses

• Dictyocaulus Arnfieldi, a species of lungworm, has been found in horses in Australia, but its prevalence is unknown.
• The donkey, a known host for this specific lungworm, carries significant worm burdens without apparent health impacts, potentially serving as a source of infection for horses.
• There have been instances of diseases in horses associated with D. Arnfieldi; however, information on treating the disease is limited.

Effectiveness of Mebendazole

• Mebendazole is recognized for its broad-spectrum antiparasitic benefits in horses and has demonstrated effectiveness against lungworm infections in sheep and cattle.
• Further examination of Mebendazole’s efficacy in treating lungworm infections in horses is suggested through a case study, focusing on two-year-olds imported from New Zealand who developed pulmonary infections.

Case Study

• Despite normal body temperatures, two horse yearlings showed signs of pulmonary infection, which were not responsive to antibiotics, vitamins, or feed supplements.
• Following a fecal examination using the Baermann technique, a heavy lungworm burden was found, including 85 and 5 D. Arnfieldi larvae per gram of horse feces.

This research highlights the need for more extensive understanding and effective treatment strategies for lungworm infestation in horses. Mebendazole has shown promise as a therapeutic agent, but additional studies and data are required to confirm its efficacy.