Possums and Protozoa: A Review of Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis | A Vet2Vet Conversation

Equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) is a disease caused by a protozoan organism that affects the central nervous system (the brain and/or spinal cord) of a horse. Fortunately, even though most horses are exposed to these parasites (commonly found in opossums), only a small percentage ever develop clinical disease. EPM is a life-threatening disease, however, and as with all types of debilitating diseases, it is important for the equine practitioner to recognize, diagnose and treat EPM early for the best possible outcome for their patient. In this Vet2Vet conversation with Philip van Harreveld, DVM, MS, DACVS, you’ll learn about the causative organisms and pathophysiology of EPM, treatment options, prognosis, and recurrence and prevention of EPM.