Fungus in Horses
Horses are susceptible to several types of fungal infections, including guttural pouch mycosis, mycotic keratitis (fugal eye infection), dermatophytosis (ringworm) and pythiosis (swamp cancer).
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Guttural Pouch Mycosis
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Guttural pouch mycosis is a fungal plaque that eats into the carotid artery as it passes through the guttural pouch, eventually resulting in a severe nose bleed which can be fatal.
Mycotic Keratitis
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Mycotic keratitis, or a fungal eye infection, can often occur after an eye has been treated with steroids.
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Dermatophytosis
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Dermatophytosis, or ringworm, is the most common contagious disease in horses, and is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted to people. It presents as a classic lesion, or open sore, and can be diagnosed with a fungal culture.
Pythiosis
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Pythiosis, also known as swamp cancer, is caused by an aquatic fungus found primarily in the Gulf Coast of the United States, South America and Australia. Pythiosis typically enters via a wound and causes ulcerative masses with a thick, sticky discharge. This fungus can be very difficult to treat.
Prevention/Solution
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Fungus in horses is best diagnosed and treated by a licensed veterinarian. Some fungus, such as dermatophytosis (ringworm), can be treated by over-the-counter medicines, while others, such as pythiosis (swamp cancer), may require more sophisticated treatments. Early detection, diagnosis and treatment is the best way to maintain your horse's health.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of daita saru
