Journal article
Bacteria isolated from field cases of equine amnionitis and fetal loss
K Todhunter, G Muscatello, A Blishen, C Chicken, N Perkins, J Gilkerson, A Begg
Australian Veterinary Journal | Published : 2013
DOI: 10.1111/avj.12022
Abstract
Background: A series of unusual abortions occurred in Thoroughbred and Quarterhorse mares in the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales from mid-March to November 2004. The initial link between early cases was the microbiological culture of atypical environmental coryneforms from the stomach contents and/or lungs of fetuses aborted on different properties. Methods: The unique pathologic lesions were described with a case definition and the term 'equine amnionitis and fetal loss' (EAFL) was established. Results: The causal factor was the ingestion of the processionary caterpillar (Ochrogaster lunifer). Bacteria from the Actinomycetales order were isolated from 40% of the combined suspect and..
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Funding Acknowledgements
We thank the Hunter Valley Equine Research Centre, Scone Veterinary Hospital, Satur Veterinary Clinic and Merriwa Veterinary Clinic for their support.