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Foxtail-induced ulcerative stomatitis outbreak in a Missouri stable
S E Turnquist1, E N Ostlund, J M Kreeger
1Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia 65205, USA.
Summary
Foxtail awns in hay caused gingivitis and stomatitis in horses. Removing the contaminated hay resolved the oral lesions, highlighting the importance of hay quality in equine health.
Area of Science:
- Equine Medicine
- Veterinary Pathology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Gingivitis and stomatitis are common oral conditions in horses.
- Identifying the causative agent is crucial for effective treatment and prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cause of gingivitis and stomatitis in a group of horses at a boarding stable.
- To determine the association between hay quality and oral lesions.
Main Methods:
- Clinical examination of affected horses, including gross pathology.
- Histopathological examination of gingival biopsies.
- Identification of foreign material in biopsies and hay samples.
Main Results:
- Twenty of 25 horses presented with gingivitis/stomatitis, characterized by swelling, erythema, ulceration, and hemorrhage.
- Fine, hair-like material, identified as grass awns (foxtail), was embedded in affected tissues.
- Pyogranulomatous inflammation with eosinophils was observed in biopsies.
- Foxtail seed heads were abundant in the suspect hay fed to affected horses.
Conclusions:
- Contaminated hay containing foxtail awns was identified as the cause of gingivitis and stomatitis in the affected horses.
- Lesions resolved after the hay source was changed, confirming the diagnosis.
- This case highlights the potential for ingested foreign material in forage to cause significant oral pathology in horses.