Enilconazole treatment of horses with superficial Aspergillus spp. rhinitis

BACKGROUND: Mycotic rhinitis is an uncommon disease in horses with a wide range of clinical signs and treatment options based on case studies of a single or only a few individuals. Moreover, while dogs with mycotic rhinitis appear to respond well to treatment with topical enilconazole, this approach has yet to be reported in horses. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to describe the clinical findings, results of diagnostic investigations, treatment, and outcome in horses with mycotic rhinitis treated with topical enilconazole. ANIMALS: Eight horses were included in the study. METHODS: Medical records from 1995 to 2007 from an equine veterinary teaching hospital were reviewed to identify cases with a diagnosis of mycotic rhinitis. RESULTS: Eleven cases were identified, of which 8 were treated with topical enilconazole. Seven of those 8 horses recovered and had normal appearance of the nasal passages on endoscopic examination. Fungal culture, where positive, yielded only Aspergillus spp. Treatment was readily performed and no adverse effects were noted in these horses. In 5 horses, long-term follow-up revealed complete recovery for an average of 5 years. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Mycotic rhinitis owing to Aspergillus spp. in horses can be effectively and safely treated with topical enilconazole.