A variety of bacterial and fungal organisms have the potential to infect the integumentary system (skin) of horses prior to causing more serious disease on other body systems. Additionally, the widespread presence of these agents can give rise to systemic disease without initially causing skin disease, making cleanliness in the horse’s environment essential, and prophylactic treatment with topical medications a prudent measure in certain cases.

Equine uterine infections inflict major losses on the equine industry every year. Persistent inflammation of the oviduct and uterus leads to loss of the conceptus and mares susceptible to infection have weakened uterine defenses due to the retention of inflammatory exudate.1 

Endometritis is inflammation of the uterine lining that occurs just after giving birth. It results from the placenta being retained or severe contamination of the reproductive tract during delivery. Factors such as prolonged or complicated delivery and a retained fetus or placenta may cause metritis. The most common cause of metritis in mares is infection by Streptococcus zooepidemicus bacteria. Other bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae can also cause metritis.2

Candidiasis is a mucocutaneous fungal disease caused by various species of the yeast-like fungus Candida albicans. The organism is found worldwide in a variety of animals. C. albicans is a normal inhabitant of the skin, nose and throat, GI tract, and external genitalia of many species of animals and is opportunistic in causing disease.3 Candidiasis can be superficial (affecting the skin or mucosal surfaces of the GI or urogenital tract), but can also proliferate and lead to candidemia (infection of internal organs).

Fungal infections of the uterus in horses are less common than bacterial infections, but it’s important for these to be considered, because untreated infections can lead to fertility problems. In such cases, prompt diagnosis and treatment are necessary for a positive outcome.

Equilog Lotion™ for Horses

Equilog Lotion™ contains:

• TRIAMCINOLONE 1MG/ML

• NYSTATIN 15.5MG/ML

• GENTAMICIN 2.5MG/ML

• ITRACONAZOLE 2MG/ML

By virtue of its four active ingredients, Equilog Lotion™ provides four therapeutic effects: anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, antifungal and antibacterial. These medications synergize to provide rapid and prolonged symptomatic relief on topical administration. Consequently, inflammation, edema, and pruritus subside, allowing lesions to heal. In cases of uterine infiltration of bacterial or fungal agents, it can be helpful in improving conception in mares.

Where to buy Equilog Lotion™

Please consult your veterinarian prior to beginning any treatment regimen.

FOR RX ONLY: A valid prescription from a licensed veterinarian is required for dispensing this medication.

1Causey RC. Making sense of equine uterine infections: the many faces of physical clearance. Vet J. 2006 Nov; 172 (3):405-21. 

2Merck Veterinary Manual.

3equimed.com.