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Management of headshaking in three horses by treatment for protozoal myeloencephalitis
L A Moore1, P J Johnson, N T Messer
1Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211, USA.
Abstract:
Unlike the incidence of equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM), which appears to be increasing, headshaking is an uncommon problem for horses in Missouri and the adjacent states. Equine protozoal myeloencephalitis was incriminated in three horses examined for the treatment of headshaking on the basis of a neurological examination, an analysis of cerebrospinal fluid and their response to treatment. The headshaking and stereotypical behaviour associated with EPM was successfully treated with potentiated sulphonamides and pyrimethamine.
Insights
Equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) can cause headshaking in horses. This study found that a combination of potentiated sulphonamides and pyrimethamine effectively treated EPM-induced headshaking and associated behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary neurology
- Equine medicine
- Parasitology
Background:
- Headshaking is uncommon in horses in Missouri, unlike the rising incidence of equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM).
- EPM is a neurological disease affecting horses, caused by *Sarcocystis neurona* or *Neospora hughesi*.
- Stereotypical behaviors can sometimes accompany neurological conditions in horses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential role of EPM in horses presenting with headshaking.
- To evaluate the efficacy of specific drug treatments for EPM-related headshaking.
Main Methods:
- Neurological examination of affected horses.
- Analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to detect inflammation and/or protozoal presence.
- Treatment trials using potentiated sulphonamides and pyrimethamine.
Main Results:
- Equine protozoal myeloencephalitis was diagnosed in three horses examined for headshaking.
- The headshaking and stereotypical behaviors observed in these horses were successfully resolved.
- Treatment with potentiated sulphonamides and pyrimethamine proved effective.
Conclusions:
- EPM should be considered in the differential diagnosis for horses exhibiting headshaking, especially in regions with increasing EPM incidence.
- Potentiated sulphonamides and pyrimethamine offer a successful treatment strategy for EPM-induced headshaking and associated behaviors in horses.