Fred asked about symptoms, treatment for equine protozoal myelitis.
EPM is caused by Sarcocystis neurona, a protozoan whose definitive
host is unknown. It infects several animals others than horses.
Symptoms are related to the nervous system and can vary. Other
diseases also afflict the CNS of horses, so diagnostic tests must be
performed to properly diagnose the infection.
The reference given below may help:
C.K. Fenger. 1995. Treating equine protozoal myelitis. The Horse,
June, p18, 20. recommended the following treatment.
Administer trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole at the rate of 15 - 30 mg/kg
(about 7-15 DS tabs/1000 lbs BWT twice daily) AND 1.0 mg/kg daraprim
(20 tabs) once daily for 3 to 6 months via a dose syringe. Anti-
inflammatory drugs, folic acid, and vitamin E may be needed in
addition to the other drugs.
Dr. Fenger is located at the University of Kentucky's Equine Center.
You should consult your local equine veterinarian for additional
information on diagnosis (there is a diagnostic test available at the
Univ of Ky) and treatment.
A.K. Prestwood
e-mail prestwood.a at calc.vet.uga.edu
