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Intracranial myiasis by Hypoderma bovis (Linnaeus) in a horse
The Cornell Veterinarian
|April 1, 1977
Summary
A horse experienced acute neurologic disease due to a warble fly larva migrating into its brain. This rare condition caused severe symptoms, leading to the animal's rapid decline and euthanasia.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Parasitology
- Equine Medicine
Background:
- Warble flies (Hypoderma bovis) typically affect cattle, with larvae migrating subcutaneously.
- Intracranial migration of Hypoderma larvae is exceptionally rare in horses.
Observation:
- A 14-year-old Quarter Horse gelding presented with acute neurologic deficits.
- Clinical signs included ataxia, circling, head tilt, facial paralysis, and visual impairment.
Findings:
- Necropsy revealed massive hemorrhage in the midbrain and pons.
- No significant necrosis or cellular response was observed, suggesting rapid, acute damage.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for unusual parasitic migration routes.
- Underscores the importance of considering rare etiologies in equine neurologic disease.
- Warble fly larvae pose a potential, albeit rare, threat to equine central nervous system health.