Topical treatments with enilconazole and miconazole
have been used with success in some cases. The
presence of a diptheritic membrane (necrotic material
over the surface of the fungal plaque) may prevent
penetration of systemic antifungals. Additionally, there
is increased risk of fatal hemorrhage due to the longer
course of medical treatment. The preferred method to
treat severe guttural pouch mycosis is to surgically insert
a coil or balloon into the affected blood vessel to quickly
cut off the blood supply (Figure 2). Typically, once the
blood supply has been removed, the fungus regresses.
CONTACT
Nathan Slovis, DVM, Dipl.ACVIM, CHT (Certified Hyperbaric
Technologist)
(859) 253-0002
Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Director
McGee Critical Care and Medical Center
Lexington, KY
Figure 2. Intravascular coils on X-ray. (Image courtesy of
Dr. Nathan Slovis)
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• Equine Health Update •