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Rhodococcus equi
Infectious DiseaseRespiratoryBacteriaEquineNew
Key Points
  • Rhodococcus equi is a bacterial pathogen that causes pyogranulomatous pneumonia
    • Most commonly affects foals 1-6 months old
  • The bacterium is ubiquitous in soil, especially in dry and dusty environments
  • Key clinical signs include dyspnoea, pyrexia and cough
  • Diagnosis is often presumptive based on clinical signs, age of the horse and imaging
  • Standard treatment is a combination of macrolides and rifampin antibiotics alongside supportive care
    • Antibiotic resistance is of increasing concern
  • Environmental management and maintaining good foal health are key for prevention
Differential Diagnoses
  1. Strangles (S. equi equi)
  2. Equine influenza
  3. Equine herpesvirus
  4. Aspiration pneumonia
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 →