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Septic sialoadenitis in equids: a retrospective study of 18 cases (1998-2010)
I Kilcoyne1, J L Watson, S J Spier
1William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, University of California at Davis, Davis, USA.
Equine Veterinary Journal
|January 15, 2014
Summary
Septic sialoadenitis in horses is often linked to dental issues and stones. Prompt treatment for anaerobic infection leads to a favorable prognosis in most cases.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Equine Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Septic sialoadenitis is an uncommon but serious condition in horses, causing pain and difficulty eating.
- Few cases are reported, potentially due to its infrequent occurrence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review equine cases of septic sialoadenitis.
- To describe clinical presentation, diagnostics, treatment, and outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series of horses diagnosed with septic sialoadenitis from 1998-2010.
- Diagnosis confirmed via oral examination, ultrasonography, and/or microbial culture.
- Data included signalment, clinical signs, diagnostics, treatment, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Eighteen horses diagnosed with parotid (11) or mandibular (7) septic sialoadenitis.
- Dental abnormalities (93.3%) and sialolithiasis (6/18) were common.
- Fusobacterium sp. and other bacteria identified; 83.3% recovered with treatment.
Conclusions:
- Dental disease and sialoliths likely contribute to equine septic sialoadenitis.
- Empirical treatment for anaerobic infection is recommended pending culture results.
- Prognosis is generally favorable with appropriate treatment.
