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Renee,
It sounds like this horse suffers from lymphangitis. This is an
inflammation of the lymph vessels which are like the sewer pipes of the
body. They drain waste material from the tissues so it can then be
eliminated from the body. Sometimes these vessels become infected and/or
inflamed and then clog up just like a sewer pipe getting backed up. When
this happens the fluid builds up in the leg until there is so much
pressure that it leaks out through the skin. This extreme pressure can
sometimes cause the leg to be very sore making the horse lame.
This is not an uncommon problem in horses. Unfortunately when these
vessels plug up they usually do not open back up and the horse may have a
permanent enlargement of the leg. Commonly, there will be flair ups
where it will inflame, drain, and be sore. I have a client at a local
dressage barn whose horse has had this for years. She is still able to
use the horse as usual, but just has to deal with the occasional flair
ups.
Your veterinarian may be able to culture the fluid that is draining and
then be able to pick the best antibiotic. Other treatments include
phenylbutazone for pain and inflammation and firmly but evenly wrapping
the leg to decrease the swelling. Daily exercise is important to help
improve the circulation. Daily aspirin therapy can also help prevent
flair ups. If you wanted to get really aggressive, there is a machine
that pumps air into special wraps applied to the leg. The pressure is
gradual increased on the leg, thus pushing the fluid out. This procedure
can be expensive though. DMSO can also help in some cases.
I am fairly certain that this is your problem, but can not say for sure
since I obviously have not seen your horse. I would suggest that your
veterinarian contact an equine facility and discuss the case with them to
ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Let me know if you have other questions. Hope this helps!
Steve White, DVM
Waterloo, Nebraska
