Corynebacterium & Tuberculosis

Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis is not a form of tuberculosis, a respiratory disease, but the bacterium that causes pigeon fever (ulcerative lymphangitis)--an infection of the lymphatic system of the lower legs in horses. Ulcerative lymphangitis is found in many conditions but especially where horses are crowded with poor sanitation. It is also spread by several species of flies.

  1. Causes

    • Corynebacteria can live in the soil all year, but become most problematic during a drought. The infection is thought to be spread by ticks, horseflies, stable flies and perhaps other insects through open wounds.

    Symptoms

    • The most apparent symptom of pigeon fever is the development of abscesses normally in the breast muscles, along the abdomen, and/or the groin area. Other symptoms include lethargy, stiffness, swelling and fever.

    Diagnosis

    • The diagnosis of pigeon fever can be confirmed by ultrasonography of intestinal organs or a culture of wound discharge.

    Treatment

    • Immediately isolate infected horses from the herd. Treatment includes antibiotics, surgical drainage and wound irrigation, but the best treatment should be determined on a case-by-case basis. Other measures include poultices, dressings, anti-inflammatory drugs for pain and leg swelling, and physical therapy.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Horses should be kept in clean, dry stalls. Use only clean combs and brushes. Remove nails and other sharp objects in stalls and pastures. Treat skin injuries promptly to prevent infection. A good fly-control program is very important in preventing the spread of the disease.