Habronema muscae

Habronema muscae is a parasitic nematode (roundworm) that primarily affects horses and other equine species. It is one of the causative agents of equine gastric and cutaneous habronemiasis, a condition that can lead to serious health issues in affected animals. The lifecycle of Habronema muscae involves a complex interaction between the host and the intermediate host, which is typically a species of fly, such as the housefly (Musca domestica) or stable fly (Stomoxys calcitrans).

Lifecycle

The lifecycle of Habronema muscae begins when eggs or larvae are excreted in the feces of an infected host. These larvae are then ingested by fly larvae (maggots), where they develop into infective third-stage larvae within the fly. When these flies visit the wounds, eyes, or mucous membranes of horses for feeding, they deposit the infective larvae. The larvae can also be ingested by the horse when it licks or bites at areas where the flies have deposited larvae. Once inside the host, the larvae migrate to the stomach and mature into adult worms, completing the lifecycle.

Clinical Signs and Diagnosis

The clinical signs of habronemiasis can vary depending on the location of the infection. Gastric habronemiasis may cause symptoms such as weight loss, colic, and gastritis. Cutaneous habronemiasis, also known as "summer sores," involves the development of granulomatous lesions on the skin, which can be itchy and may become infected. Diagnosis of Habronema muscae infection is typically based on the clinical signs, the presence of characteristic lesions, and the identification of larvae in fecal samples or from lesions.

Treatment and Control

Treatment of Habronema muscae infections involves the administration of anthelmintic drugs that are effective against the larvae and adult worms. Management practices that reduce the exposure of horses to the intermediate fly hosts are also important. This can include measures such as stable hygiene, use of fly repellents, and proper disposal of manure.

Prevention

Preventive measures focus on reducing the horse's exposure to the intermediate hosts (flies) and include regular deworming programs, fly control measures, and environmental management to reduce fly populations.

See Also

• Parasitic worms of animals
• Gastrointestinal tract infections
• Veterinary parasitology

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