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Showing posts with the label VetInsight PK.

Equine Recurrent Uveitis (Moon Blindness): Clinical Signs and Pathogenesis

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1. Moon Blindness (ERU) Equine Recurrent Uveitis (ERU), popularly referred to as Moon Blindness , is the most common cause of blindness in horses. The condition entails recurrent episodes of intraocular inflammation within the uveal tract consisting of the iris , ciliary body , and choroid . As opposed to superficial conjunctivitis, Moon Blindness is a deep-seated immune-mediated condition that causes permanent damage. Anatomy of Equine Uveitis: A comparative diagram illustrating the clinical manifestations of Moon Blindness. The right panel demonstrates corneal edema and a constricted pupil ( miosis ), highlighting the inflammation and pain associated with the disease. | VetInsight PK 2. Cause/Trigger of Moon Blindness The specific cause is often difficult to identify, but the following may precipitate the first episode: Infectious Agents:  Most commonly caused by Leptospirosis ( Leptospira interrogans ). Immune-mediated response:  Involves the development of an autoimmune...

Laminitis (Founder) in Horses: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

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 1. Introduction Laminitis is a serious condition affecting the horse's hooves. It is characterized by inflammation of the sensitive laminae, which are soft tissues connecting the hoof wall to the coffin bone. When the connection between the hoof and the coffin bone breaks down, rotation or sinking of the bone can occur, referred to as Founder . Equine Hoof Anatomy: Understanding the laminar structures is essential for diagnosing Laminitis . Any disruption in the inter-laminar space leads to the rotation of the Coffin Bone , as shown in these anatomical landmarks. | Visual by VetInsight PK 2. What Triggers Laminitis? Laminitis is rarely limited to the hooves; it is often a reaction to something happening throughout the body. • Endocrine/metabolic issues:  This is the most common cause, with conditions such as Equine Metabolic Syndrome ( EMS ) and Cushing's Disease ( PPID ) causing high insulin levels, resulting in inflammation. • Poor dietary choices:  Excessive cons...

Strangles in Horses: Clinical Signs, Diagnosis, and Biosecurity

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1. Introduction ​Strangles is an upper respiratory tract infection of horses that is highly contagious. The disease is caused by the bacterium *Streptococcus equi* subsp. *equi*. The disease is called strangles because of the extreme swelling of the lymph nodes in the throat area that can literally strangle the horse. Clinical manifestation of Strangles ( Streptococcus equi ) in horses, showing characteristic lymph node swelling and purulent nasal discharge. Early diagnosis of these anatomical landmarks is vital for equine biosecurity. | Image: VetInsight PK 2. Transmission  ​The disease is transmitted quickly via: ​Direct Contact:  Infected horses transmit the disease to other horses by nose-to-nose contact. ​Indirect Contact:  Infected horses transmit the disease via the sharing of water containers, grooming equipment, and even the hands or clothing of the horse owner. ​Shedding:  Infected horses transmit the disease even after showing signs of wellness. ​3. Clin...

PPR (Peste des Petits Ruminants) in Sheep and Goats: Symptoms, Treatment, and Vaccination Guide

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​1. Introduction: The Global Threat of "Goat Plague" Peste des Petits Ruminants, commonly referred to as " Bakra Shanti " or " Small Ruminant Plague ," is a contagious and deadly viral infection affecting goats and sheep. It is caused by a member of the Morbillivirus group. In Pakistan, small ruminants are a source of livelihood for poor rural communities, and if PPR strikes, a poor farmer will suffer a 100% loss in income. Because of its contagious nature and 90% mortality rate, Peste des Petits Ruminants has been classified as a transboundary animal disease. ​2. Transmission: How the Virus Invades the Flock Before we discuss how Peste des Petits Ruminants can be controlled, let's first find out how this deadly disease spreads: ​Direct Contact:  The direct contact between healthy and infected animals is considered the major mode of transmission. ​Aerosol Transmission:  The Peste des Petits Ruminants virus becomes airborne when an infected goat sneeze...