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When you live in an endemic area, there is no standard season for
Streptococcus equi subsp. equi (S. equi) infection. It's very common
year-round. With vigilant owners/caretakers, infections can be found
early and a large outbreak averted. Client education is key and their
compliance imperative. is article will focus on upper respiratory tract
infections with S. equi.
Clinical Signs
1. Pyrexia
2. Abscessation of lymph nodes (commonly submandibular and
retropharyngeal)
3. Mucopurulent nasal discharge
4. Pharyngitis/pharyngeal compression
5. Dysphagia
6. Dyspnea (stridor)
7. Cough
8. Lethargy
9. Anorexia
10. Extended head position
e classic presentation is a patient with lethargy, fever, swollen
submandibular and retropharyngeal lymph nodes, and mucopurulent
(thick, yellow) nasal discharge. In Weatherford, TX, several present with
fever and no easily palpable lymph node enlargement. ey'll usually
have some throatlatch sensitivity and retropharyngeal lymph node
abscesses break out into the guttural pouches only. A clear yellow serous
nasal discharge is commonly seen before abscesses rupture. is can
sometimes be the hardest for owners to believe when they're accustomed
to classic throatlatch swelling and abscess drainage percutaneously.
Abscesses have also been found periocular, perioral, periauricular,
middle and caudle cervical lymph nodes, prescapular lymph nodes,
Strangles: upper
respiratory tract infection
Dr. Qualls
Author bio
