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Strangles (also called equine distemper) is a contagious upper respiratory tract infection of horses and other equines caused by a Gram-positive bacterium, Streptococcus equi. [1] As a result, the lymph nodes swell, compressing the pharynx , larynx , and trachea , and can cause airway obstruction leading to death, hence the name strangles. [ 2 ]
Horses that develop purpura haemorrhagica usually have a recent history of strangles (infection with Streptococcus equi subsp. equi) or vaccination (intramuscular or intranasal) for strangles. It is thought to be caused by an auto-immune reaction where antibodies against the S. equi M- or R-protein cross-react with proteins on endothelial cells .
The bacteria Streptococcus equi, the causative agent of strangles, is commonly involved. Mycotic infections can also occur. [5] Some visible symptoms of guttural pouch disease include abnormal head and neck carriage, nasal discharge, painful swelling and occasional abnormal functioning of the structures associated with the pouch. [5]
Lymphangitis is commonly associated with a wound, which may be very minor. This is a likely entrance for bacterial access to the lymph ducts. The degree of lameness is variable, but may be sufficient to give the impression of a fracture. The horse may or may not be pyrexic (fevered). The limb may occasionally ooze serum.
Hemal nodes were first described by Gibbes in 1884. [3] Hemal nodes appear similar to lymph nodes in the structure of its lymphoid follicles and to the spleen in the structure in its lymphoid cords. [4] It is presumed to have the same function as the spleen. [5]
Skin eruption, usually on legs, occasionally head or neck, rarely other body parts. The lymph vessels in the skin stand out prominently, and small hard nodules approximately 1 cm (1/2") in diameter appear on their course. The nodules suppurate forming abscesses and discharge a thick yellow pus.
The infection can spread through the blood or lymphatic system, causing abscesses to form in other lymph nodes or internal organs throughout the body. Most commonly affected organs are the liver, lungs, kidneys and lymph nodes associated these organs. Abscesses grow gradually over time, and if they are located close to the skin, rupture is common.
Lymph nodes may become enlarged in malignant disease. This cervical lymphadenopathy may be reactive or metastatic. [1] Alternatively, enlarged lymph nodes may represent a primary malignancy of the lymphatic system itself, such as lymphoma (both Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's), [6] lymphocytic leukemia, [1] Lymphadenopathy that lasts less than two weeks or more than one year with no progressive ...