Fungal Pneumonia in Horses

A suspicion for fungal pneumonia must be established in the equine patient based on clinical signs, geographical location, and exclusion of more common pathogens. From there, a combination of diagnostic procedures must be used to achieve a definitive diagnosis of the exact fungal agent. As antifungal drugs become more affordable and effective in horses, successful treatment may be reported more frequently in cases that are diagnosed early. Although relatively uncommon, fungal pneumonia is an important class of respiratory tract infection that has a need for further research and treatment trials, as there is a unique group of horses that would benefit from appropriate and effective treatment.