In all such cases rational treatment, good hygiene and careful nursing are the principal factors which stimulate recovery. Individual resistance or lowered vitality has a marked influence on the course of this affection.
NON-INFECTIOUS LYMPHANGITIS.
This type of lymphangitis is associated with, or the result of, a derangement of digestion. It affects heavy draft horses, rarely other types of animals, and involves one or both hind legs.
Occurrence.—In healthy and well nourished horses irregularly used, this affection may suddenly manifest itself. It occurs in singular instances in mares that are in advanced pregnancy even when such animals are at pasture. Usually, however, this malady is found in heavy draft horses that have been kept stabled from one to three days.
Symptomatology.—At the outset in severe cases, there is elevation of temperature, labored breathing, accelerated pulse, anorexia and more or less swelling of the affected members. Swelling is very painful and when the affected legs are palpated, pain is manifested by flinching. The inguinal lymph glands are often swollen but in some cases they are not affected in any perceptible degree. In the average case suppuration does not occur and when conditions are favorable, resolution is complete within ten days. The extent of the involvement and the intensity of the affection vary materially in different cases and a chronic lymphangitis may succeed the acute attacks and finally in some instances, elephantiasis results.
Treatment.—An active purgative should be given at once and in the ordinary case, stimulants are indicated. If marked distress is present, morphin is given and where there is much rise of temperature, cold drinking water is offered in abundance and catharsis is enhanced by enemata. Locally, hot applications are of benefit. Hot towels or cotton held in position by bandages and kept soaked with warm water will relieve pain and stimulate resolution. Diuretics may be of benefit and anodyne applications are to be employed with profit in some cases. Walking exercise, if not indulged in to excess, is helpful as soon as acute inflammation has subsided. By giving careful attention to the regimen and providing regular exercise for susceptible subjects, this type of lymphangitis is often forestalled.
FOOTNOTES:
[34] Manual of Veterinary Physiology. Page 610.
[35] Manual of Veterinary Physiology, page 601.