Meningitis Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Meningitis, including details on viral, bacterial, spinal, symptoms, treatment.

Streptococcus equi meningoencephalomyelitis in a foal.

Finno C, Pusterla N, Aleman M, Mohr FC, Price T, George J, Holmberg T

Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, 95616, USA.

CASE DESCRIPTION: A 4-month-old American Paint Horse colt was evaluated because of acute onset of ataxia, left-sided head tilt, and fever and a recently noticed heart murmur. Upper respiratory tract infection caused by Streptococcus equi subsp equi had been diagnosed at 3 months of age. CLINICAL FINDINGS: Hematologic abnormalities included leukocytosis, mature neutrophilia, monocytosis, and mild anemia. Analysis of a CSF sample revealed high total protein concentration and total nucleated cell count; nucleated cells consisted mainly of degenerate neutrophils. Results of a real-time PCR assay were positive for S equi subsp equi, and a diagnosis of S equi subsp equi meningoencephalomyelitis was made. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME: Treatment included administration of potassium penicillin and fluids, but the foal developed uroperitoneum and was subsequently euthanized. Postmortem examination revealed meningoencephalomyelitis, and S equi subsp equi was cultured from a brain aspirate. Additional findings included suppurative cystitis with rupture and neutrophilic myocarditis. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Findings suggest that S equi subsp equi meningoencephalomyelitis should be considered in the differential diagnosis for foals with neurologic signs that have a history of strangles or exposure to affected horses.

Published 4 September 2006 in J Am Vet Med Assoc, 229(5): 721-4.
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