What should be a concern when treating equine wounds infected by Habronema larvae?

When treating equine wounds infected by Habronema larvae, delayed healing is a significant concern. This is because Habronema larvae—responsible for causing the condition known as summer sores—can lead to chronic and persistent inflammation in the wound area. The presence of these larvae disrupts the normal healing processes of the tissue and can contribute to ongoing inflammatory responses that impede skin repair.

This delayed healing is often compounded by the fact that the larvae can survive and remain active in the wound for an extended period. As a result, the body’s ability to heal normally is hindered, leading to prolonged issues for the horse. Effective management of such wounds often requires addressing both the parasitic infection and the inflammatory response to promote healing and restore the integrity of the skin.

Other potential concerns, such as abscess formation, secondary bacterial infection, and severe inflammation, can occur in the context of wound healing, but the unique interaction of Habronema larvae with the tissue primarily leads to delayed healing outcomes that need to be emphasized in treatment strategies.