There are about six
different types of
sarcoid which vary
in appearance and
growth patterns, from
flat flaky patches
to large, ulcerated
pedunculated growth.
Not all abscesses are
always immediately
visible, be sure to
regularly check your
horse all over...
RUBBER BANDING (image right)
A very cheap method of treating some sarcoids,
rubber rings can be very effective as long as an
area of normal skin is included within the area
constricted by the rubber band.
NOTE: This treatment should be
carried out by your vet.
Images above shows progression during treatment
TOPICAL CHEMOTHERAPY
A number of creams are available to treat sarcoids. By far
the most effective is developed and supplied by the University of Liverpool Sarcoid Department, the cream being
called LUDES. Used only by a veterinary surgeon, LUDES
cream is applied about five times over about a fortnight,
causing considerable initial reaction. The sarcoid then dries
up and the scab may take several months to fall off completely.
A Member of XLVets:
Practice locations
• Long Stratton
• Norwich
• Costessey
• Brooke
• Wymondham
BCG INJECTIONS
A very effective means of treating certain sarcoids around
the eye. A course of three BCG injections is usually given
over a period of about a month. The sarcoid then gradually
shrivels up and disappears over the following 2-3 months.
SCALPEL SURGERY
Cutting off a sarcoid is generally reserved for a very small
number of cases, as it is very difficult to determine where
the sarcoid “roots” end. Closure of the wound is difficult as
a large area of tissue is often removed.
With special thanks to Chapelfield Vets.
Chapelfield Vets have been established for over 100
years, now boasting 5 veterinary practices across the UK.
For a comprehensive list of horse health topics/articles
please visit Chapelfeild’s main website via
www.chapelfieldvets.co.uk
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Everything Horse UK • Issue 27• December 2015
December 2015 • Issue 27 • Everything Horse UK
Visit www.chapelfieldvets.co.uk
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