Septic pleuritis and abdominal abscess formation caused by Rhodococcus equi in a foal

摘要

A3-month-old 105-kg (231-lb) female Arabian horse was evaluated at the Louisiana State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital because of a history of fever, respiratory distress, lethargy, and decreased appetite of 5 days' duration. The foal had beenexamined previously by the referring veterinarian and had received treatment with antimicrobials for pneumonia. Collection of a transtracheal aspirate specimen was attempted by the referring veterinarian without success; as a result, subcutaneous emphysema had developed along the left jugular furrow and cranial aspect of the right thoracic wall. On initial evaluation at the hospital (day 0), the foal was quiet, alert, and responsive. Its coat condition was poor, Breathing was labored with an abdominalcomponent, and decreased breath sounds were aus-culted in both ventral hemithoraces. Rectal temperature (39.2°C [102.5°F]), heart rate (84 beats/min), and respiratory rate (52 breaths/min) were high. The mucous membranes were slightly injected, and the capillary refill time was < 2 seconds. No coughing or nasal discharge was evident, Mild effusions of the carpal and tar sal joints were also palpated bilaterally, but there was no evidence of lameness.