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Listeria keratitis in a horse
S Sanchez1, M Studer, P Currin
1Athens Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA. ssanchez@cvm.vet.uga.edu
Veterinary Ophthalmology
|November 28, 2001
Summary
This study reports the first case of ulcerative keratitis in a horse caused by Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium typically found in the environment. The mare experienced eye pain and discharge, with the bacteria identified in corneal lesions.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Ophthalmology
- Microbiology
- Equine Health
Background:
- Listeria monocytogenes is an environmental bacterium.
- Keratitis is a common ocular condition in animals.
- L. monocytogenes is an uncommon cause of animal keratitis.
Observation:
- A mare presented with clinical signs of ocular pain and epiphora.
- Examination revealed a corneal lesion in the right eye.
- Cytologic evaluation confirmed the presence of bacteria.
Findings:
- Listeria monocytogenes was successfully isolated from the corneal lesion.
- This represents the first documented case of ulcerative keratitis linked to L. monocytogenes in a horse.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for L. monocytogenes to cause severe ocular disease in horses.
- Emphasizes the importance of considering environmental pathogens in equine keratitis.
- Informs diagnostic and treatment strategies for similar cases.