## Overview A pectoral abscess is a collection of pus in the chest muscles between the forelimbs. The classic cause in the western United States is Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis (pigeon fever), producing large, painful swellings. Injection reactions can also cause abscesses. Horses show heat, pain, fever, and stiff forelimb movement. ## Causes Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis or other bacteria introduced by wounds or injections. ## Diagnosis Clinical appearance, ultrasound, and culture of aspirated pus. ## Treatment Allow the abscess to mature, then lance and drain. Antibiotics are used in some cases. Hot packing helps maturation. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for external abscesses once drained. ## Prevention Fly control and wound management in endemic areas.
hot painful swelling in the chest; reluctance to move the forelimbs; possible draining tract; fever; stiff gait
## Overview A pectoral abscess is a collection of pus in the chest muscles between the forelimbs. The classic cause in the western United States is Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis (pigeon fever), producing large, painful swellings. Injection reactions can also cause abscesses. Horses show heat, pain, fever, and stiff forelimb movement. ## Causes Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis or other bacteria introduced by wounds or injections. ## Diagnosis Clinical appearance, ultrasound, and culture of aspirated pus. ## Treatment Allow the abscess to mature, then lance and drain. Antibiotics are used in some cases. Hot packing helps maturation. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for external abscesses once drained. ## Prevention Fly control and wound management in endemic areas.
hot painful swelling in the chest; reluctance to move the forelimbs; possible draining tract; fever; stiff gait