6 Streptococcus equi

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Questions and Answers

In a 90-day old Thoroughbred foal diagnosed with Streptococcus equi infection, which clinical finding would most strongly suggest the presence of an immune-mediated component to the disease?

  • Fever of 103.5°F.
  • Paroxysmal coughing upon tracheal compression.
  • Cranioventral lung field crackles.
  • Presence of petechiae or ecchymoses. (correct)

What diagnostic test would be most sensitive for detecting Streptococcus equi in a horse with atypical strangles?

  • Serum biochemical analysis.
  • Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay on a nasal swab. (correct)
  • Aerobic culture of a nasal swab.
  • Complete blood count (CBC).

Which of the following factors would most significantly increase the risk of a horse developing a high Streptococcus equi antibody titer?

  • Being a Quarter Horse rather than a Thoroughbred. (correct)
  • Being a mare.
  • Being housed on a farm with fewer than 20 horses.
  • History of receiving the intramuscular _Streptococcus equi_ vaccine.

Based on current evidence, which of the following environmental conditions would least favor the survival of Streptococcus equi?

<p>Direct exposure to sunlight. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism by which Streptococcus equi establishes infection in horses?

<p>Translocation from the upper respiratory tract to local lymph nodes. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In cases of purpura hemorrhagica secondary to Streptococcus equi infection, corticosteroids are used to:

<p>Dampen the Type III hypersensitivity reaction. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following would be the least appropriate management strategy in a horse showing clinical signs of strangles?

<p>Initiating immediate antibiotic treatment with penicillin in all confirmed cases. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a horse tests positive for Streptococcus equi via PCR but shows no clinical signs, what is the most appropriate next step?

<p>Quarantine the horse and perform guttural pouch lavage for PCR testing. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most significant risk associated with the use of penicillin in a horse with Strangles?

<p>Immunologic response. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following clinical signs is least commonly associated with submandibular lymphadenopathy caused by Streptococcus equi?

<p>Seizures. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

After identification of a 'carrier' horse during management of an outbreak, which of the following management steps are correct?

<p>Perform guttural pouch lavage and endoscopic exam of the guttural pouches. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

After initial diagnosis of Strangles in a horse, what clinical finding is most suggestive that the horse has progressed to metastatic disease?

<p>Weight loss, colic, abdominal mass. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a case of purpura hemorrhagica associated with Streptococcus equi, which laboratory finding would be most indicative of the condition?

<p>High IgA to M protein ratio. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In managing a Strangles outbreak on a farm, which of the following is least important?

<p>Vaccinating all horses on the farm. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When is the administration of an Intramuscular Streptococcus equi vaccine contraindicated?

<p>All of these answers are correct. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios poses the greatest risk for the survival and spread of Streptococcus equi?

<p>A cool, damp, and dark environment. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the expected findings on a complete blood count (CBC) in a foal with Strangles?

<p>Inflammatory leukogram with hyperfibrinogenemia. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of performing nasopharyngeal culture and PCR in Strangles?

<p>To determine release form quarantine. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An elevated creatine phosphokinase (CK) is associated with which of the following conditions?

<p>Purpura Hemorrhagica. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Appropriate methods of prevention include?

<p>All of these answers are correct. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason to avoid vaccinating a horse during an outbreak?

<p>Vaccination can increase the risk of immune-mediated complications. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

After the initial infection, where does bacterial translocation occur?

<p>Local and regional lymph nodes. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the expected time of resolution for routine cases of Strangles?

<p>3-4 weeks. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The survival of Streptococcus equi may approach 30 days under which condition?

<p>Damp environment. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is characteristic of purpura hemorrhagica?

<p>Immune-mediated aseptic vasculitis. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When are local therapies used? (Select all that apply.)

<p>All of these answers are correct. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In horses affected with Strangles, why are NSAIDs administered?

<p>To reduce fever and inflammation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which differential diagnosis is more likely to have a high SeM?

<p>Metastatic Abscess. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following therapies is least indicated in the treatment of purpura hemorrhagica?

<p>Vaccination. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Abscesses associated with Strangles should be treated with?

<p>Isolation and drainage. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What diagnostic procedure is most helpful to perform after the identification of Strangles?

<p>Guttural pouch lavage. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What diagnostic finding is most indicative of neutrophilic vasculitis?

<p>Leukocytoclastic vasculitis. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following clinical signs is commonly associated with guttural pouch empyema?

<p>Nasal discharge. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does an intranasal Streptococcus equi vaccine approximate natural immunity?

<p>It approximates natural immunity more closely. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In routine cases of Strangles, why is aggressive therapy indicated?

<p>The presence of immune mediated disease. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a clinical sign seen with purpura hemorrhagica?

<p>Weight loss. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When monitoring healthy horses during a Strangles outbreak, at what temperature is intervention indicated?

<p>101.5°F. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a herd of horses experiencing a Strangles outbreak, a seemingly healthy horse tests positive for Streptococcus equi via nasopharyngeal PCR. Considering the dynamics of S. equi infection, what is the most critical next step in managing this individual horse to prevent further spread within the herd?

<p>Isolate the horse from the herd and perform guttural pouch endoscopy with PCR testing to rule out carrier status. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A horse presents with acute onset of painful limb swelling, petechiae on mucous membranes, and elevated creatine phosphokinase (CK) levels, three weeks following a Strangles outbreak on the farm. Considering the pathogenesis of these clinical signs, which underlying mechanism is most likely contributing to this horse's condition?

<p>Type III hypersensitivity reaction resulting in immune complex deposition and neutrophilic vasculitis. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During a Strangles outbreak, farm management is considering implementing vaccination to control the spread. Which factor is the most critical to evaluate before deciding to vaccinate horses during an active outbreak?

<p>The current antibody titers of the horses, as vaccination in horses with high titers increases the risk of adverse events. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A horse diagnosed with purpura hemorrhagica secondary to Streptococcus equi infection is being treated with corticosteroids. What is the primary therapeutic goal of corticosteroid administration in this specific context?

<p>To modulate the immune response by reducing the Type III hypersensitivity reaction and vasculitis. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In managing a Strangles outbreak, identifying and managing 'carrier' horses is critical. What is the most reliable diagnostic approach to confirm Streptococcus equi carrier status in a horse that has recovered from clinical signs of Strangles?

<p>Guttural pouch endoscopy followed by collection of lavage fluid for culture and PCR, repeated if initially negative. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering the survival characteristics of Streptococcus equi, which environmental condition would pose the greatest long-term risk for maintaining infectivity and potential transmission of the bacteria?

<p>Moist, shaded environment during cool winter months. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A horse presents with dysphagia, stertorous breathing, and bilateral nasal discharge. Endoscopic examination reveals a retropharyngeal abscess compressing the pharynx. While Streptococcus equi is a primary differential, which other pathogen should be considered as a less common but significant differential in this clinical scenario?

<p><em>Actinobacillus equuli</em> (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a horse with Strangles, the decision to use systemic antibiotics is complex. Considering the potential disadvantages, in which clinical scenario would systemic antibiotic treatment be most clearly indicated despite the risks?

<p>A horse exhibiting severe dyspnea due to massive lymph node enlargement compromising the airway. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When monitoring horses during a Strangles outbreak, a tiered management system is implemented. For horses in the 'amber' zone (exposed or at risk), what temperature threshold should trigger intervention, such as isolation and further diagnostic testing, according to best practice guidelines?

<p>101.5°F (38.6°C) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A breeding farm is developing a long-term prevention strategy for Strangles. Considering the different vaccine options and their characteristics, which vaccination approach would be most effective in stimulating mucosal immunity and potentially reducing both disease incidence and severity in foals and adult horses?

<p>Intranasal administration of a modified-live <em>Streptococcus equi</em> vaccine annually. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Following the resolution of a Strangles outbreak on a farm, what is the recommended minimum duration for quarantine of the premises and newly introduced horses to minimize the risk of recurrence?

<p>21 days after the last clinical case has resolved and all carrier testing is negative. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In cases of guttural pouch empyema secondary to Strangles, chondroids may form. What is the most significant clinical consequence of guttural pouch chondroid formation in horses?

<p>Persistent <em>Streptococcus equi</em> infection and potential for ongoing shedding and transmission. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A horse recovering from Strangles develops a cough and fever 4 weeks after initial diagnosis. Thoracic radiographs reveal multiple pulmonary abscesses. This progression is most consistent with which complication of Streptococcus equi infection?

<p>Metastatic Strangles (Bastard Strangles). (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When performing a transtracheal wash on the 90-day-old Thoroughbred foal described in the signalment and history, and considering the radiographic findings, which bacterial pathogen would be most crucial to differentiate from Streptococcus equi in the differential diagnosis of pneumonia?

<p><em>Rhodococcus equi</em> (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The provided case history mentions the foal was treated with TMS (Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole) and Gentamicin without improvement. Considering the typical antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of Streptococcus equi, what is the most likely reason for the lack of clinical response to these antibiotics?

<p>Gentamicin has poor penetration into abscesses, which are a hallmark of Strangles. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of managing Strangles outbreaks, 'disinfection of premises' is listed as a key control measure. Which class of disinfectants would be most effective against Streptococcus equi while also being practical and safe for use in equine environments?

<p>Accelerated hydrogen peroxide. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A horse owner is concerned about the risk of Strangles and inquires about preventative measures. They are particularly interested in biosecurity practices. Which biosecurity measure is likely to have the most significant impact on reducing the introduction of Streptococcus equi into a closed herd?

<p>Implementing strict quarantine protocols for all incoming horses, including diagnostic testing. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a horse with purpura hemorrhagica, local therapy is often recommended as part of the management plan. What is the primary rationale for applying local therapies like hydrotherapy and support bandaging to affected limbs in these cases?

<p>To reduce edema, promote circulation, and provide support to tissues compromised by vasculitis. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Elevated creatine phosphokinase (CK) is noted in a horse suspected of having purpura hemorrhagica. While CK elevation is consistent with muscle damage, what specific muscle-related condition, directly linked to purpura hemorrhagica, is most likely contributing to this finding?

<p>Muscle infarction resulting from neutrophilic vasculitis affecting intramuscular blood vessels. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the provided images, Viborg's triangle is depicted. What is the primary anatomical significance of Viborg's triangle in the context of Strangles management?

<p>It defines the landmarks for external drainage of submandibular and retropharyngeal abscesses. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The clinical presentation of atypical Strangles differs from classical Strangles. Which of the following best describes a key characteristic of atypical Strangles?

<p>Mild, often non-suppurative lymphadenopathy with subtle systemic signs or no external abscessation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The case description of the 2-yr old QH filly with weight loss, colic, and abdominal mass, and a very high SeM titer (1:25,600), is most suggestive of what form of Streptococcus equi related disease?

<p>Metastatic (Bastard) Strangles with internal abscessation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering the pathogenesis of Strangles, bacterial translocation is a key early event. Where does bacterial translocation of Streptococcus equi primarily occur after initial colonization of the upper respiratory tract?

<p>From the nasopharyngeal mucosa to local and regional lymph nodes (mandibular, retropharyngeal). (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is Strangles?

A highly contagious, beta-hemolytic, gram-positive cocci and primary pathogen in horses.

How is Strangles transmitted?

Direct contact with infected horses and contaminated environments (fomites) are ways Strangles can be spread.

What are the clinical signs of Submandibular Lymphadenopathy?

Biphasic fever, mucoid nasal discharge, reluctance to swallow, depression, and extended head and neck.

What is the pathogenesis of Strangles infection?

A bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus equi, leading to abscess formation in the lymph nodes of the head and neck.

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What are the three types of clinical management?

Routine S. equi infection, Atypical infection and Immune-mediated S. equi-associated disease.

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What is the general treatment for Strangles?

Isolate affected horses, warm dry environment, drain abscesses, NSAID or flunixin meglumine as needed.

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How can Strangles be prevented?

Quarantine incoming horses for 21 days, obtain 3 negative nasal swab cultures and PCR during quarantine, and guttural pouch lavage sample for PCR.

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How to manage a Strangles outbreak?

Isolate affected horses, discontinue traffic on farm, temperature all horses twice a day, disinfect premises, nasopharyngeal culture and PCR.

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What are the predisposing factors for high titer of Strangles?

SeM-specific antibody titer, QH breed, older horses, and intranasal vaccine.

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What is the treatment for Purpura Hemorrhagica?

Local therapy, corticosteroids, antibiotics, dimethyl sulfoxide, and NSAIDs.

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Study Notes

  • Strangles is caused by Streptococcus equi subsp. equi.
  • Strangles was first reported in 1251 by Jordanus Ruffus.

Signalment and History

  • A 90-day-old Thoroughbred foal presents with lethargy and increased respiratory rate over the past week.

Physical Examination Findings

  • Crackles are heard in the cranioventral lung fields.
  • Tracheal compression elicits a paroxysmal cough.
  • An audible tracheal rattle is present.
  • The foal has a fever of 103.5°F.

Diagnostics

  • Thoracic ultrasound reveals multiple, bilateral peripheral hypoechoic areas measuring 2-6 cm in diameter.
  • Thoracic radiographs show an alveolar and nodular pattern.
  • CBC shows an inflammatory leukogram with hyperfibrinogenemia.
  • Results of a transtracheal wash are pending.

Treatment

  • Initial treatment with TMS and Gentamicin showed no improvement.

Strangles Characteristics

  • Strangles is characterized as beta-hemolytic, gram-positive cocci.
  • The bacteria is highly contagious and host-adapted.
  • It is a primary bacterial pathogen.

Transmission

  • Transmission occurs through direct contact and fomites.
  • Young horses are more susceptible, and co-mingling facilitates spread.
  • Carrier animals can also transmit the disease.

Clinical Signs: Submandibular Lymphadenopathy

  • Biphasic fever
  • Mucoid nasal discharge
  • Reluctance to swallow
  • Depression
  • Extended head and neck

Guttural Pouch

  • The guttural pouch attaches to the eustachian tube.

Retropharyngeal Abscess

  • A retropharyngeal abscess may form.

Guttural Pouch Empyema

  • Guttural pouch empyema can occur.

Atypical Strangles

  • PCR is three times more sensitive than culture for diagnosing atypical strangles.

Metastatic Abscess

  • Metastatic abscesses can develop.
  • A serum M protein (SeM) titer of 1:12,800 is associated with metastatic abscesses.

Treatment for S. equi subsp. equi Infections

  • Isolation is the first step in treatment to prevent shedding of live bacteria.
  • Maintain a warm, dry environment.
  • Drain abscesses when possible, using hot packs to facilitate drainage.
  • NSAIDs like flunixin meglumine can be used as needed.

Surgical Considerations

  • The Viborg's triangle can be used as a surgical landmark.

Penicillin

  • There is no confirmed evidence of resistance to Penicillin.
  • Indications of Penicillin use include dyspnea, persistent fever, initial fever spike, and purpura/myositis.
  • Disadvantages include prolonged morbidity, immunologic response, and metastatic strangles.

Convalescence

  • Nasopharyngeal culture and PCR should be performed at 3-4 weeks.

Fatal Strangles

  • Fatal strangles occurs in approximately 10% of cases.
  • Death is due to metastatic disease, purpura, or upper airway obstruction.

Prevention

  • Intramuscular vaccines made from bacterial extracts are available.
  • Intranasal live-attenuated vaccines more closely approximate natural immunity.
  • Vaccines are contraindicated if titers are > 1,600.

Prevention - Strangles

  • Quarantine incoming horses for 21 days
  • Three negative nasal swab cultures and PCR tests should be obtained during quarantine.
  • Guttural pouch lavage sample for PCR can also be performed.

Management of an Outbreak

  • Isolate affected horses.
  • Discontinue traffic on the farm.
  • Monitor temperature in all horses twice daily (BID).
  • Disinfect premises.
  • Perform nasopharyngeal culture and PCR to determine release from quarantine.
  • Identify carrier horses.

Environmental Survival

  • Consider all factors for survival.
  • Recent evidence has demonstrated it may approach 30 days.
  • Survival is shorter with season and direct sunlight.
  • Winter provides survival advantage in UK.

Purpura Hemorrhagica

  • Purpura hemorrhagica is immune-mediated aseptic vasculitis.
  • It can occur post-vaccination or post-exposure in immune horses.

Purpura Hemorrhagica: Immune Complex Deposition

  • Immune complex deposition occurs in the walls of vasculature
  • Neutrophilic vasculitis is caused by leukocytoclastic vasculitis.
  • High IgA to M protein ratio
  • ELISA titer with Idexx of 1:12,800 or higher.

Purpura Hemorrhagica: Clinical Signs

  • Painful limb swellings
  • Asymmetric, oozing serum
  • Discoloration of the nose
  • Swelling of nares
  • Fever and depression
  • Mature neutrophilia
  • Severe disease with elevated creatine phosphokinase (CK).

Purpura Treatment

  • Local therapy with hydroRx, sweat, and support bandages.
  • Corticosteroids to dampen type III hypersensitivity.
  • Antibiotics to address immune suppression + S. equi.
  • Dimethyl sulfoxide as an anti-inflammatory/antioxidant.
  • NSAIDs for analgesia and anti-inflammation.

Risk Factors for High Titers

  • SeM-specific antibody titer ≥ 1:1,3200
  • Quarter Horses are 4x more likely than Thoroughbreds/Warmbloods
  • Older horses
  • Intranasal vaccine in the previous 1-3 years increases risk 4.7x compared to no vaccine

Other Factors

  • Farms with > 20 horses (OR, 0.11)
  • Clinically evident disease (OR, 7.92)
  • Male sex (OR, 0.11)

Summary of Streptococcus equi subsp. equi

  • Streptococcus equi subsp equi is a primary equine pathogen.
  • Bacterial translocation from the upper respiratory tract to local and regional lymph nodes occurs in the first few days of infection.
  • Routine disease results in abscess formation, rupture, and drainage with resolution in 2-3 weeks.
  • Morbidity can be substantial.
  • Complications may lead to mortality in 10% of cases.
  • Aggressive therapy is indicated in cases of immune-mediated disease, including antibiotics and corticosteroid therapy.

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