Poll evil is a condition that affects horses and causes swelling or abscesses near their ears. The spelling of this term can be confusing, as it includes two consonants that are not usually found together, "ll" and "v." The IPA phonetic transcription of the word is /ˈpɑl ˈivəl/, which indicates that the first syllable is pronounced like "pal" and the second syllable is pronounced like "evil." While the spelling may seem unusual, it is important for those in the equestrian community to recognize and understand the term.
Poll evil, also known as poll-evil, is a medical condition commonly found in horses, specifically affecting the poll region of their head. It is characterized by inflammation and suppuration, leading to the formation of an abscess near the poll area. This condition primarily occurs as a result of an infection, often introduced through a wound or injury to the poll.
The infection in poll evil is usually caused by bacteria, such as Staphylococcus spp. or Streptococcus spp., which enter the wound and proliferate, leading to inflammation and the development of an abscess. The severity of the infection can vary, depending on the duration and progression of the condition.
Symptoms of poll evil may include swelling, warmth, pain, and the presence of a soft or fluctuating mass near the poll. As the abscess grows and progresses, it may rupture, releasing pus and resulting in further swelling and pain. In severe cases, the infection can spread, causing additional complications and affecting nearby structures, such as the ears, eyes, or the spine.
Treatment for poll evil typically involves veterinary intervention. It may include draining the abscess, administering antibiotics to combat the infection, and cleaning and dressing the wound. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove infected tissue or repair any damage caused by the infection. Caution should be exercised to prevent the condition's recurrence by thoroughly cleaning wounds and promptly treating any injuries around the poll region.
• Suppurative inflammation on the head of a horse behind the ears.
• A swelling or abscess on the top of a horse's head, caused by a blow.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "poll evil" is derived from the Middle English word "poll" meaning "head" and the word "evil", which originally referred to a disease affecting the head of a horse. The word "evil" in Old English was used to describe various ailments or diseases, and in the case of "poll evil", it specifically referred to an inflammation or abscess on the poll (top/back of the head) of a horse. Over time, "poll evil" became a term used in veterinary medicine to describe this particular condition.