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Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (view source)
Revision as of 12:00, 20 July 2010
, 12:00, 20 July 2010→Treatment
==Treatment==
==Treatment==
===Ancillary medication===
'''NSAIDs''': DMSO IV as 10% solution, thought to reduce CSF pressure and improve clinical status. Recommended for severe cases of EPM or to avoid worsening inflammation that may be induced by parasite kill(Furr). Caution: DMSO may cause intravascular haemolysis(Pasq).
'''Corticosteroids''': a short course of dexamethasone may be beneficial whilst waiting for antiprotozoals to take effect. However, use is controversial because cell-mediated immunity is required to control parasites(Pasq) and stress is a proposed risk factor for EPM.(Furr)
'''Immunomodulators''':
*Levamisole influences T-cell mediated immunity and enhances phagocytosis
*Parapox ovis virus (PPOV) immunomodulator (Zylexis, Pfizer Animal Health, Kalamazoo, Mich). This vaccine has been shown to upregulate the secretion of cytokines including IFN-γ in several species (110 in Furr). IFN-γ is thought to be essential for the clearance of S neurona, thus PPOV may be useful in EPM.(Furr)
'''Multiple vitamin B supplement'''.(Pasq)
===Supportive management===
Box rest with deep bedding and good footing or turn out in a flat, grassy field. Ensure all obstacles are removed and avoid turning out ataxic animals with dominant herd mates. Recumbent horses will require dedicated support and a sling if available. (Furr)
==Prognosis==
==Prognosis==