Streptococcus equi in Equine: Diagnostic and Healthy Performance Impacts.
Authors: Ikhuoso Obaisi Alaanuloluwa, Monroy Jose Cedillo, Rivas-Caceres Raymundo Rene, Cipriano-Salazar Moisés, Barbabosa Pliego Alberto
Journal: Journal of equine veterinary science
Summary
Strangles, caused by *Streptococcus equi*, remains a costly endemic infection despite centuries of documented disease history, with significant implications for both equine welfare and athletic performance. This review synthesised evidence from multiple researchers examining diagnostic approaches and the physiological consequences of *S. equi* infection, particularly focusing on antibiotic resistance patterns that complicate clinical management. The hallmark presentation includes purulent nasal discharge, pyrexia, anorexia, and depression, progressing to marked weight loss and lethargy that can substantially compromise training capacity and athletic potential in sport horses. Beyond the acute infection phase, the performance impacts extend to prolonged recovery periods and potential complications such as bastard strangles, making early diagnosis and appropriate management crucial for minimising lost training days and maintaining competitive fitness. For practitioners managing infected animals, this review underscores the importance of robust diagnostic protocols to confirm *S. equi* status, careful consideration of antimicrobial stewardship given resistance concerns, and realistic expectations regarding return-to-work timelines rather than reliance on antibiotics alone.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Strangles remains a common disease challenge; traditional antibiotic protocols may be ineffective, necessitating alternative or adjunctive management strategies
- •Infected horses will experience significant performance loss due to systemic signs (fever, depression, anorexia) and require adequate recovery time before returning to work
- •Consult current research on alternative treatment approaches beyond standard antibiotics when managing S. equi cases in performance horses
Key Findings
- •Strangles disease caused by S. equi remains a frequently diagnosed infection in horses worldwide despite being documented for centuries
- •S. equi demonstrates significant antibiotic resistance, making conventional antibiotic treatment often inefficient
- •Clinical signs include purulent discharge through mucous and skin membranes, anorexia, fever, depression, weight loss, and lethargy
- •Infected horses show reduced physical activity and compromised performance in athletic and sport applications