Habronemiasis is a veterinary medical condition that affects horses and other equids. It is caused by the parasitic infection of Habronema spp., which are small nematodes commonly known as stomach worms.
Habronemiasis occurs when horses ingest larvae of the parasite while grazing or from contaminated food or water. The larvae then migrate to the stomach, where they mature and lay eggs. The eggs are either passed in the feces or expelled through gastric secretions, where they may be ingested by the intermediate hosts, such as houseflies or stable flies.
In the intermediate host, the larvae develop and become infective, and when these flies come into contact with the horse's skin or mucous membranes, they deposit the larvae. The larvae cause irritation and inflammation, leading to the formation of granulomatous nodules, commonly referred to as "summer sores," on the horse's skin, usually around the mouth, eyes, or genital areas.
Symptoms of habronemiasis include itching, hair loss, swelling, and the appearance of raised lesions. The affected horses may exhibit signs of discomfort, including rubbing or scratching the affected areas. If left untreated, habronemiasis can result in chronic and persistent skin lesions, leading to secondary bacterial infections or other complications.
Treatment typically involves deworming the affected horse to get rid of the parasites, along with the use of anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation and itching. Local wound care and fly control measures are also important to prevent reinfection. Regular deworming and good hygiene practices in the stable can help prevent habronemiasis in horses.
