Equine Epizootic Lymphangitis Study Guide
Overview and Clinical Importance
Epizootic lymphangitis (EL) is a chronic, contagious fungal disease affecting horses, mules, and donkeys, caused by Histoplasma capsulatum var. farciminosum. This dimorphic fungus creates characteristic pyogranulomatous skin lesions that follow lymphatic vessels, producing the pathognomonic 'cord-like' appearance.
The disease remains endemic in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Ethiopia, and poses significant welfare and economic challenges for working equids. While eradicated from most developed countries, it represents an important differential diagnosis for lymphangitis in horses.
Etiology and Pathophysiology
Causative Agent
Histoplasma capsulatum var. farciminosum is a thermally dimorphic fungus with distinct environmental and tissue forms:
You've been studying hard
Create a free account to keep reading
Free accounts get 5 articles/day + daily practice questionJoin vet students already studying with NavleExam.
No credit card needed — free account takes 30 seconds.
Create Free Account — Keep Reading Already have an account? Log inNo spam. One question per day. Unsubscribe anytime.
Take the free NAVLE practice exam
50 exam-style questions across the NAVLE species. See your score as soon as you finish, then get the full answer key with explanations by email. No payment, no account.
Start the free exam →