EQUINE | CPD Article
CPD
Sarcoids
AC/2230/19
1) What is thought to cause equine sarcoids? 4) Which of the following is NOT true of equine sarcoids?
a. Epidemiology and behaviour of sarcoids suggest
involvement of a non-infectious agent.
b. Contact antigens, eg chemicals, plants (eg Euphorbia spp,
nettles), topical drugs.
c. Strong evidence for the involvement of bovine papilloma
virus (BPV-1/BPV-2).
d. Research suggests macrophages are involved in the
transfer of bacteria to remote sites via the bloodstream.
e. Chronic exposure to UV light. a. Sarcoids often multiply in the summer and grow in the
winter.
b. Rapid exacerbation of sarcoids may occur, often
following trauma or a biopsy.
c. Incomplete excision may activate latent BPV, stimulating
growth of the sarcoid.
d. Sarcoids are benign and are therefore not infiltrative.
e. Metastatic spread does not occur.
2) Which of the following histopathological features is
NOT typical of equine sarcoids?
a. Acantholytic and hyperkeratotic epidermis.
b. Epithelial pegs extending into the dermis.
c. High mitotic rates and doubling times.
d. Whorled fibroblasts with variable amounts of interstitial
collagen.
e. Epidermal and dermal components.
3) Regarding equine sarcoids, which of the following is
correct?
a. Type A nodules have cutaneous involvement.
b. Type A2 nodules have no deep tissue involvement and
can be moved independently of them.
c. Type A1 and A2 nodules are usually amenable to surgical
excision.
d. Type B2 nodules have both skin and deep tissue
involvement.
e. Malignant sarcoids are amenable to topical treatments.
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5) Which of the following is NOT true regarding the
aetiology of sarcoids in the horse?
a. BPV DNA has been isolated from sarcoids, and the
amount reflects the severity of the disease.
b. BPV is believed to be transmitted by flies.
c. Viral genes associated with neoplastic transformation are
found in sarcoids.
d. Experimentally produced lesions behave in the same way
as sarcoids.
e. Macrophages may be involved in the transfer of viral
particles.
6) Which of the following is NOT true regarding sarcoids
in horses?
a. Most cases are first identified at 2-10 years of age.
b. No convincing gender predisposition has been
demonstrated.
c. Thoroughbreds have the highest risk of developing the
disease.
• Equine Health Update •