Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Bone lesions caused by Pythium insidiosum in a horse.
- Journal:
- Journal of medical and veterinary mycology : bi-monthly publication of the International Society for Human and Animal Mycology
- Year:
- 1988
- Authors:
- Mendoza, L et al.
- Affiliation:
- Department of Mycology
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A 5-year-old female saddle horse developed a tumor-like mass on the front leg, specifically in the area of the metacarpal bones. Tests showed that the horse had a serious bone infection caused by a fungus called Pythium insidiosum. X-rays revealed significant damage and abnormal growth in the bones of the leg. Although the horse received immunotherapy to try to treat the infection, it did not work, and sadly, the horse had to be put down. A thorough examination after death confirmed the findings seen in the X-rays.
Abstract
A 5-year-old, female saddle horse developed a tumoral mass anterolaterally on the metacarpal region of its right front leg. Histopathological study showed hyaline, aseptate, broad hyphae in the sequestered coral-like necrotic masses. Radiographs revealed an extensive osteomyelitis with disorganized bone proliferation of the metacarpal bones, as well as exostosis of the distal radius and the proximal and distal row of carpal bones. The etiologic agent was detected histologically, isolated in culture and identified as Pythium insidiosum. Serological tests were positive. Immunotherapy was applied but no cure resulted. The horse was sacrificed and necropsy confirmed the X-ray findings.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3379540/