Fungi in the gut and EOTRH
We see it almost daily in practice, horses and ponies with a disturbed microbiome. An annoying problem, which can bring with it various complaints.
In this article, we discuss EOTRH in combination with fungi in the gut.
What is EOTRH?
EOTRH stands for Equine Odontoclastic Tooth Resorption and Hypercementosis.
The main characteristic of EOTRH is that the tooth dissolves, sometimes combined with the formation of large amounts of “cement” around the root. This condition is very painful in many cases. EOTRH occurs mainly on the incisors of, older, cold-blooded horses. Sometimes the first molars and/or molar teeth are also affected. The infestation usually begins on the outer incisors and slowly develops toward the middle and inner incisors.
Symptoms
Symptoms that may indicate the presence of EOTRH are:
– Loose incisors
– Inflamed gums receding from the root base, often with openings where pus comes out (fistulae)
– At the level of the roots a thickening of the incisors
– Teeth that break and/or fall out easily
– Extreme amount of tartar
– More salivation
– Having difficulty biting through harder foods such as carrots, for example
– Stink from the mouth
Cause
Relatively little is still known about the exact cause of EOTRH. A disruption of the immune system may play a role. Recently, we are seeing many horses with EOTRH that also have excess fungi in the gut. Coincidence? Or can this be explained?
In the intestines live bacteria, yeasts and fungi. If this is in a good and healthy balance, there is nothing wrong. If this balance shifts and fungi take over, for example, problems can arise.
Among other things, fungi in the gut prevent nutrients from being absorbed properly, which can have a major effect on resistance. In addition, a mouth has a microbiome all its own, the oral microbiome. Research in human health care suggests that probiotics (and biotherapy) may be useful in reversing the onset of periodontal disease, treating caries and addressing halitosis.
Thus, it is highly plausible that a disturbed microbiome in the gut is related to a disturbed microbiome in the mouth.
Case example
In May this year, the handsome mare Eranthe came to practice for the first time. She had various movement complaints and, in addition, incipient EOTRH. It soon became clear that Eranthe’s intestinal flora was not good at that time; among other things, she was suffering from fungi in her intestines.
This can also cause movement problems. For example, a horse’s appendix is located on the right side of the abdomen at the level of the flank and is very large. If there is fungus here, it can be very uncomfortable for a horse.
The horse will start trying to relieve the bowel and move accordingly. For example, we often see that these animals are slower in stride on the right rear, or have difficulty with a particular flexion.
For Eranthe, treatment was initiated that focused on restoring intestinal flora. Tackling the fungus, building a healthy microbiome and helping the body eliminate the released waste products.
During the second consultation, it was apparent that Eranthe was already moving much more freely. Her stomach was less tense and she was less petulant.
During her treatment regimen, a tincture based on the plant Spilanthes oleracea was also used specifically to calm the gums. The plant is praised for its analgesic properties for toothaches. Spilanthes increases the resistance of the organism and has a cleansing effect.
Recently Eranthe came for a checkup appointment and she is doing much better! Notable was her mouth and gums. The gums were previously towards inflamed and are now completely calm.
Is this now the solution for every horse with EOTRH? No probably not, every animal and every situation is different. It is not scientifically proven or substantiated that there is a direct relationship between EOTRH and fungi in the intestines.
However, it does make a lot of sense to look further into a horse or pony with EOTRH, how is the rest of the health? The microbiome is so incredibly important to the rest of overall health!