Diagnostic imaging and hematological and cytological analyses play a vital role in clinical investigation and selection of therapeutic approaches in a polo pony with septic olecranon bursitis

Abstract

A 19-year-old gelding polo pony was presented with a prominent protuberance at the tip of the right elbow and five days later, developed a marked swelling on the entire right foreleg with a high fever. Ultrasonography, performed on the caudal elbow region, demonstrated heterogeneous echogenic materials encapsulated in the fibrous capsule. The initial hematological analysis revealed anemia and a normal white blood count (WBC). Hyperbilirubinemia was detected biochemically. Pale yellow/turbid fluid was aspirated from the protuberance area, which showed septic exudate characteristics and contained Streptococcus spp. The pony was diagnosed with septic olecranon bursitis associated with streptococcal infection. The fluid-filled capsule was drained and flushed with normal saline mixed with an antiseptic once a day. Oral sulphonamide-trimethoprim was administered according to the drug sensitivity test for ten days. The capsule was filled with granulation tissue and the surgical wound completely healed 14 days after drainage. The WBC proportions were normal and anemia and hyperbilirubinemia were resolved following therapy. Diagnostic imaging and hematological and cytological analyses benefited the clinical investigation and therapeutic approaches in a pony with septic olecranon bursitis.