Diagnósticos diferenciais e a abordagem terapêutica de suspeita de granuloma fúngico em equino mangalarga marchador: relato de caso

Respiratory diseases in horses pose a clinical challenge due to the diversity of etiological agents and the complexity of diagnosis. Among these conditions, fungal infections are rare but difficult to manage, requiring specific therapeutic approaches and long-term monitoring. This study aimed to report a suspected case of fungal granuloma in a Mangalarga Marchador mare treated at the IFMG Campus in Bambuí. The eight-and-a-half-year-old animal presented with a history of serosanguineous nasal discharge, dysphagia, respiratory distress, and hyperemic lesions on the nasal mucosa and glottic region. Despite previous treatments with antimicrobials and anti-inflammatory drugs, clinical signs persisted. Physical examination revealed ulcerative and granulomatous lesions, raising suspicion of a fungal granuloma. Treatment included compounded fluconazole with dosage adjustments over time. Partial improvement in mucosal lesions and edema reduction were observed, but the animal remained with nasal discharge and lost body condition. The clinical course was monitored for 90 days; however, despite therapeutic efforts, the horse died suddenly without necropsy to confirm the cause of death. Differential diagnoses included bacterial abscesses, neoplasms, pythiosis, and pneumonia, but a conclusive diagnosis of fungal granuloma was limited by the absence of complementary tests such as fungal culture or PCR. This case highlights the complexity of diagnosing and managing equine respiratory diseases, emphasizing the need for complementary examinations and individualized therapies. Furthermore, it underscores the challenges in antifungal treatment response, aligning with literature that suggests the necessity for long-term follow-up and adaptive interventions.