Introduction
Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis is a neurological disorder that is caused by Sarcocystis nervena, a single-celled organism. It is the most prevalent cause of neurologic diseases in horses in the United States. It is also endemic in many other countries. EPM can lead to a variety of clinical signs. These include subtle changes in behavior, coordination and severe paralysis. EPM is a serious condition that horses can experience. It is essential to be able to identify the symptoms and how to treat it.
EPM Causes
EPM is caused in part by the protozoan parasite Sarcocystis nervena. This parasite can be found in the feces and urine of wild animals such as opossums. Horses can get infected if they consume water or feed contaminated by the parasite, or if they are bitten by an Opossum. The parasite spreads from the horse’s stomach to its central nervous system where it causes inflammation and damages.
Clinical Signs of EPM
EPM symptoms can vary depending upon the severity and location of the infection. Common symptoms include weakness, lethargy and ataxia. These symptoms can be subtle or serious and can appear in any combination.
Diagnoses of EPM
It can be difficult to diagnose EPM. To diagnose EPM, a veterinarian will usually perform a physical exam that includes a neurologic exam. To check for antibodies, blood and cerebrospinal fluid testing may be performed. The presence of antibodies against the parasite within the cerebrospinal fluid can confirm that EPM has been diagnosed.
Treatment of EPM
EPM treatment depends on the severity and response of the horse to treatment. Mild cases can be treated with supportive care and anti-inflammatory drugs. For more severe cases, antiprotozoal drugs may be required such as diclazuril and ponazuril. The treatment is often repeated several times per month.
EPM prevention
EPM can be prevented by reducing the horse’s exposure. Avoiding contact with opossums, cleaning feed and water containers, and ensuring that any grain or hay stored outside is secured are some of the ways to prevent EPM. Although the results of vaccination may vary, they may not work in all cases.
FAQs
Q: What is Equine Protozoal Mineloencephalitis (EPM)?
A: Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis is a neurological disorder that is caused by Sarcocystis nervena, a single-celled organism. It is the most prevalent cause of neurologic diseases in horses in the United States.
Q: What is the EPM diagnosis?
A: EPM can be diagnosed through a physical exam and looking for signs. To check for antibodies against the parasite, blood and cerebrospinal fluid testing may be performed. The presence of antibodies against the parasite within the cerebrospinal fluid can confirm that EPM has been diagnosed.
Summary
Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis is a serious neurological disorder that can be debilitating and can be caused by the protozoan parasite Sarcocystis Neurona. EPM symptoms can range from mild paralysis to more severe changes in behavior. EPM diagnosis can be difficult, but it can be achieved using a combination physical exam, blood tests, cerebrospinal fluid and cerebrospinal fluid testing. EPM treatment depends on the severity and response of the horse to treatment. It may include anti-inflammatory drugs and antiprotozoal medications as well as supportive care. EPM can be prevented by reducing the horse’s exposure and vaccination against the disease.