Pseudomonas-Enterobacter Co-Infection Drives Cellulitis and Lymphangitis in Equines: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Equine Infectious Diseases
• Bacteriology

Background:

• Equine cellulitis and lymphangitis can lead to severe complications.
• Traditional therapies may pose risks for secondary infections.

Observation:

• A 9-year-old warmblood mare presented with acute limb swelling, fever, and cutaneous ulceration.
• Diagnostics revealed a co-infection with Pseudomonas asiatica and Enterobacter hormaechei.
• Elevated anti-elastin antibody (AEAb) levels correlated with lymphatic degradation.

Findings:

• Whole-genome sequencing identified the causative pathogens.
• Radiography and lymphangiography ruled out laminitis and showed lymphatic vessel changes.
• Successful treatment involved systemic antimicrobials, anti-inflammatory drugs, decongestive therapy, and traditional Chinese herbal medicine.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of accurate pathogen identification for targeted antimicrobial therapy.
• Demonstrates the potential efficacy of combining conventional and holistic treatments in complex equine cases.
• Emphasizes early, comprehensive interventions to manage severe cellulitis-lymphangitis and prevent adverse outcomes.