Case report: The gastrointestinal nematode Strongylus vulgaris as a cause of hoof abscess in a donkey.
Authors: Stahel Lina, Bigler Naomi Ana, Grimm Felix, Schnyder Manuela, Oehm Andreas W
Journal: BMC veterinary research
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Strongylus vulgaris and Hoof Abscess in a Donkey Whilst *Strongylus vulgaris* typically causes disease through larval migration in mesenteric arteries, aberrant migration of this nematode to ectopic sites remains poorly documented in equids. A 19-year-old donkey presenting with severe lameness in the right forelimb unresponsive to standard hoof treatments underwent diagnostic imaging and sole removal, which revealed a substantial abscess harbouring a single adult female *S. vulgaris*—the first reported case of this parasitic migration causing hoof pathology in donkeys. Following mechanical abscess drainage, wound care with medicinal fly larvae therapy, and ivermectin treatment at 200 µg/kg, the abscess resolved within two months with complete resolution of lameness, with parasitological follow-up at 2 weeks, 7 months, and 10 months confirming effective anthelmintic control and parasite elimination. Coproscopic examination of four herd mates confirmed concurrent *S. vulgaris* infection in the group, highlighting the importance of whole-herd anthelmintic coverage and surveillance. This case expands our understanding of how *Strongylus vulgaris* can manifest clinically beyond classic colic and vascular disease presentations, and clinicians should consider parasitic aetiology when hoof abscesses fail to respond to conventional management, particularly in populations with documented strongylid burden.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Consider parasitic infection when hoof abscesses fail to respond to standard treatment protocols—diagnostic imaging and thorough examination of abscess contents may reveal unexpected aetiologies
- •Strongylus vulgaris can migrate ectopically to unusual sites causing lameness; implement flock/herd anthelmintic screening and strategic deworming to prevent aberrant infections
- •Combination of surgical drainage, wound management with medicinal fly larvae, and appropriate anthelmintic therapy was effective; ensure follow-up coproscopy to confirm parasite elimination
Key Findings
- •Adult female Strongylus vulgaris was identified as the causative agent of a hoof abscess in a 19-year-old donkey, representing the first reported case of ectopic occurrence in this location
- •Surgical drainage combined with ivermectin treatment (200 µg/kg) resulted in complete abscess healing within two months and full resolution of lameness
- •Coproscopic examination confirmed S. vulgaris presence in the affected donkey and four herd mates, with parasitological follow-up at 2 weeks, 7 months, and 10 months demonstrating sustained parasite control post-treatment