Fungus in Horses

Horses are susceptible to several types of fungal infections, including guttural pouch mycosis, mycotic keratitis (fugal eye infection), dermatophytosis (ringworm) and pythiosis (swamp cancer).

  1. Guttural Pouch Mycosis

    • Guttural pouch mycosis is a fungal plaque that eats into the carotid artery as it passes through the guttural pouch, eventually resulting in a severe nose bleed which can be fatal.

    Mycotic Keratitis

    • Mycotic keratitis, or a fungal eye infection, can often occur after an eye has been treated with steroids.

    Dermatophytosis

    • Dermatophytosis, or ringworm, is the most common contagious disease in horses, and is zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted to people. It presents as a classic lesion, or open sore, and can be diagnosed with a fungal culture.

    Pythiosis

    • Pythiosis, also known as swamp cancer, is caused by an aquatic fungus found primarily in the Gulf Coast of the United States, South America and Australia. Pythiosis typically enters via a wound and causes ulcerative masses with a thick, sticky discharge. This fungus can be very difficult to treat.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Fungus in horses is best diagnosed and treated by a licensed veterinarian. Some fungus, such as dermatophytosis (ringworm), can be treated by over-the-counter medicines, while others, such as pythiosis (swamp cancer), may require more sophisticated treatments. Early detection, diagnosis and treatment is the best way to maintain your horse's health.