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Ocular Halicephalobus (syn. Micronema) deletrix in a horse
Veterinary Pathology
|September 1, 1995
Summary
A horse developed severe eye inflammation and neurological signs due to the parasite Halicephalobus deletrix. This case highlights the potential for this parasite to spread from the eye to the brain in horses.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Ophthalmology
- Neurology
Background:
- Uveitis is a common ocular condition in horses.
- Halicephalobus deletrix is a nematode known to cause disease in various animal species.
Observation:
- A horse presented with severe unilateral uveitis, progressing to neurological signs post-operatively.
- Histopathology revealed granulomatous chorioretinitis and encephalitis with intralesional Halicephalobus deletrix.
Findings:
- The study documents the first reported case of ocular parasitism by Halicephalobus deletrix in a horse.
- The parasite was identified within the ocular tissues and subsequently in the central nervous system, specifically the optic chiasm, thalamus, and brain stem.
Implications:
- This finding suggests that the eye may serve as a primary site for Halicephalobus deletrix infection, with potential for systemic dissemination.
- Early recognition and understanding of Halicephalobus deletrix ocular and neurological involvement are crucial for equine health management.