Clinical and epidemiological findings and response to treatment of 25 cases of tetanus in horses occurred in Norte Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Abstract

ABSTRACT. Di Filippo P.A., Graça F.A.S., Costa A.P.D., Coutinho I.S. & Viana I.S. [Clinical and epidemiological findings and response to treatment of 25 cases of tetanus in horses occurred in Norte Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.] Achados clínico-epidemiológicos e resposta ao tratamento de 25 casos de tétano em equinos ocorridos na região Norte Fluminense, Rio de janeiro, Brasil. Revista Brasileira de Medicina Veterinária, 38(1):33-38, 2016. Hospital Veteriná- rio, Setor de Grandes Animais, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Avenida Alberto Lamego, 2000, Parque Califórnia, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ 28013-602, Brasil. E-mail: pdf@uenf.br The retrospective analysis of mainly clinical and epidemiological findings of 25 cases of tetanus occurred between 2011 and 2014, revealed that male horses, of Quarto de Milha breed, with 4.6 years of age were the most affected and the main clinical signs included difficulty of mobility (100%) followed by muscular rigidity (92%) and third eyelid protrusion (80%). Lack of preventive vaccination (100%), several injuries (28%), injuries resulting from trimming (12%) and spaying procedures (20%) were identified risk factors. The treatment, considered standard, was not effective in the condition of the resolution in most cases (80%) and early identification associated with the management of the source of infection were factors that contributed to the healing of the disease. The administration of serum antitetanus intrathecal with animals in standing position, has shown promise, beyond viable and easy to be performed. Studies that evaluate new therapeutic possibilities including, routes of administration, are needed, however educational campaigns guiding and encouraging the immunization of massive number animals can more immediately contribute to reduction of tetanus in horses.