Primary and secondary limb cellulitis in horses: 44 cases (2000-2006).
OBJECTIVE
To determine historical, physical, and microbiologic findings in horses with limb cellulitis and identify factors associated with short- and long-term outcome.


METHODS
Retrospective case series.


METHODS
44 horses with limb cellulitis.


METHODS
Information obtained from medical records included use, history, affected limb, diagnostic procedures, treatment, and short-term outcome. Long-term follow-up information was obtained by means of a telephone survey.


RESULTS
Twenty-four horses had primary cellulitis, and 18 of the 24 (75%) had a hind limb affected. Results of microbiologic culture were positive for all 20 horses with primary cellulitis from which specimens were obtained, with coagulase-positive Staphylococcus spp recovered from 12 of the 20. Short-term survival rate was 67% (16/24) for horses with primary cellulitis; 7 of the 9 horses available for long-term follow-up were being used for their intended use, and 4 had had a recurrence. Results of microbiologic culture were positive for 13 of the 16 (81%) horses with secondary cellulitis from which specimens were obtained. Short-term survival rate for horses with secondary cellulitis was 90% (18/20). Eleven of the 17 horses available for long-term follow-up were being used for their intended use; 2 had had a recurrence.


CONCLUSIONS
Results suggested that cellulitis can be a life-threatening condition in horses. Horses that were febrile at admission or that developed laminitis were significantly less likely to survive. The prognosis for return to function was guarded, and recurrence was a potential concern.
Adam
Emma N
EN
Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, PA 19348-1692, USA.
Southwood
Louise L
LL
D000818:Animals; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002481:Cellulitis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology / Q000473:pathology / Q000662:veterinary*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006614:Hindlimb; D006734:Horse Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology / Q000473:pathology*; D006736:Horses; D008297:Male; D011379:Prognosis; D012008:Recurrence; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D013203:Staphylococcal Infections / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000473:pathology / Q000662:veterinary*; D016019:Survival Analysis; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents