Equine Strongylosis is a parasitic disease that affects horses. The word is spelled as /ˈiːkwaɪn/ /strɒnˌdʒaɪˈləʊsɪs/ in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first part of the word is pronounced as "ee-kwai-n" and refers to horses. The second part, "stron-jai-lo-sis," is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable and means the parasitic disease caused by Strongyloides worms. Proper spelling of this word is important for veterinary professionals to diagnose and treat horses with this disease.
Equine strongylosis is a parasitic disease that primarily affects horses and other equines. It is caused by a group of nematode worms known as Strongyles, specifically the species Strongylus vulgaris, Strongylus edentatus, and Strongylus equinus.
These worms infect the large intestine and cecum of the equine gastrointestinal tract. The life cycle of equine strongyles involves the adult worms laying eggs, which are then passed out in the horse's feces. The larvae in the eggs then develop and develop into infective larvae that can survive in the environment for several weeks to months.
Horses become infected with equine strongyles when they ingest the infective larvae while grazing or consuming contaminated food or water. Once inside the horse, the larvae migrate through the intestinal wall and travel to the large blood vessels supplying the intestines. Here, they mature into adult worms and can cause significant damage to the blood vessels, leading to reduced blood flow and other gastrointestinal disturbances.
Clinical signs of equine strongylosis can vary depending on the severity of the infection but commonly include weight loss, poor appetite, diarrhea, and colic. In severe cases, complications such as intestinal blockages or ruptures can occur.
Treatment for equine strongylosis involves the administration of anthelmintic medications, specifically targeting the different life stages of the worms. Additionally, proper pasture management, regular deworming protocols, and good hygiene practices can help prevent and control the spread of equine strongylosis. Adherence to recommended deworming schedules and regular veterinary check-ups are key in maintaining the health and well-being of equines.
The word "equine" is derived from the Latin word "equinus", which means "of or pertaining to horses". "Strongylosis" comes from the Greek word "strongylos", meaning "roundworm". Therefore, the term "equine strongylosis" refers to a parasitic disease caused by roundworms in horses.