Clostridial myositis in horses

Muscle infection with clostridial organisms requires reduced oxygen tension s or a lowered oxidation-reduction potential. A majority of reported equine cases occur as a result of iatrogenic intramuscular injection of nonantibi otic injectables. The pathologic effects of clostridia include the release of various potent exotoxins and enzymes capable of inducing muscle necrosis and systemic inflammation. The disease is rapidly progressive and frequent ly fatal, requiring a guarded to poor prognosis when diagnosed. Early and a ggressive treatment is indicated in suspected cases.