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Bacterial epididymitis in two stallions
J P Held1, S Adair, M D McGavin
1Department of Rural Practice, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville 37901-1071.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|September 1, 1990
Summary
Bacterial epididymitis in stallions caused by S zooepidemicus can be diagnosed using semen analysis and bloodwork. Treatment with surgery and antibiotics may not always clear the infection in affected horses.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Equine Reproduction
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Bacterial epididymitis is a significant reproductive challenge in stallions.
- Streptococcus zooepidemicus is a potential causative agent.
- Understanding diagnostic markers and treatment outcomes is crucial for equine fertility.
Observation:
- Two stallions presented with unilateral bacterial epididymitis.
- Diagnosis involved bacterial isolation (S zooepidemicus), semen analysis (WBC count), elevated blood fibrinogen, and leukocytosis with a regenerative left shift.
- Ultrasonography showed exudate accumulation in the epididymis tail.
Findings:
- One stallion experienced persistent infection despite unilateral orchiectomy and antibiotic treatment.
- High seminal pH was noted in one affected horse.
- Treatment efficacy varied, with one case showing treatment failure.
Implications:
- This study highlights the diagnostic criteria for S zooepidemicus epididymitis in stallions.
- It underscores the potential challenges in eradicating the infection, even with combined treatment modalities.
- Further research into optimal treatment strategies for equine epididymitis is warranted.