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[Leukoencephalomalacia in two horses--moldy corn poisoning in Germany?]
P Wohlsein1, U Hinrichs, K Brandt
1Institut für Pathologie (Arbeitsgruppe Diagnostik, Leiter.
Abstract:
Moldy corn poisoning is a mycotoxicosis of Fusarium sp. causing a disease termed equine leukoencephalomalacia (ELEM). This article reviews the literature on ELEM and describes two cases with clinical signs and morphological findings comparable with fusariotoxicosis. Since in both cases neither a fungus nor a toxin proof were performed, the different causes of leukoencephalomalacia in horses are discussed.
Insights
Moldy corn poisoning, a mycotoxicosis from Fusarium species, causes equine leukoencephalomalacia (ELEM). This review discusses ELEM causes, including two reported cases, and other potential reasons for leukoencephalomalacia in horses.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Mycotoxicology
Background:
- Equine leukoencephalomalacia (ELEM) is a severe neurological disease in horses.
- It is often associated with the consumption of moldy corn contaminated with Fusarium species.
Observation:
- This article reviews the existing literature on ELEM.
- Two cases exhibiting clinical and pathological signs consistent with fusariotoxicosis are presented.
- Fungal or toxin confirmation was not performed in the presented cases.
Findings:
- Fusarium mycotoxicosis is a primary suspected cause of ELEM.
- Differential diagnoses for leukoencephalomalacia in horses are explored due to the lack of definitive proof in the cases.
Implications:
- Understanding the diverse etiologies of leukoencephalomalacia is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment in horses.
- Further research is needed to definitively link Fusarium toxins to specific ELEM cases and differentiate from other causes.