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Oxyuriasis (O. equi)
Infectious DiseaseParasiteEquineNew
Key Points
  • Oxyuriasis is a gastrointestinal parasitic condition of horses, caused by Oxyuris equi (pinworms)
  • Adult worms inhabit the colon and rectum but gravid females migrate to the perianal region to deposit eggs
  • The key clinical signs are intense pruritus and tail rubbing, caused by deposition of eggs around the perineal region
  • The acetate tape test is best for diagnosis
  • There has been increasing anthelmintic resistance to macrocyclic lactones, so benzimidazoles are usually the first-line treatment
  • Prevention relies on good environmental hygiene and targeted anthelmintic use
Differential Diagnoses
  1. Sweet itch (insect bite hypersensitivity)
  2. Dermatophytosis
  3. Behavioural tail rubbing
Overview
Aetiology
Clinical Signs
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Resources
Overview

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Aetiology

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Clinical Signs

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Diagnosis

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Treatment

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Prevention

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Resources

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Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →