Docking and herbal treatment for equine melanoma in an Arabian Horse
A. Amrozi1*, R.H. Soehartono1, E.R. Adistya2, I Mahardi3, H. Mukarromah3, M.I. Satria3, B. Achmadi1, K. Karthikeyan1

1*Departemen Klinik Reproduksi dan Patologi, Fakultas Kedokteran Hewan, IPB, Bogor
2Rumah Sakit Hewan Pendidikan, Fakultas Kedokteran Hewan, IPB, Bogor
3Dr Am Veterinary Services, Jl Ketimun C93, Sinarsari, Dramaga, Bogor

Abstract

Abstract. Equine melanoma is a condition that arises frequently in horses with a grey coat color than in horses of other colors. In general terms, melanoma is also known as a neoplasm. These tumors can be either formed as benign and malignant which can be classified by examining their histological and macroscopic features. In this case of necrotic equine melanoma was found in coccygeal bone an 20-year-old grey Arabian Mare. The mare was hand over in chronic condition of a bleeding tail, pus containing, abnormal growth of the tumor, and the initial therapy was directed with antibiotics, anti-inflammatory, balanced nutrition, and good care of wound management in the mare. Tail amputation or docking was performed to treat the horse and followed by herbal treatment by using turmeric powder. Curcumin is the main compound found in turmeric powder. Curcumin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-carcinogenic, anti-mutagenic, anticoagulant, and anti-infectious effects. The excision of melanoma tumors in horses could be a practicable treatment option that is locally curative with minimal complication. Factors affecting the decision for surgery include the rate of growth of the lesion, age of the horse, presence of necrosis/infection, functional compromise, and potential future complication. It is advisable to remove tumor growth in potentially problematic areas before they become large enough to cause a clinical predicament.

Keywords: equine melanoma, docking, turmeric

Topic: Veterinary Clinic, Reproduction, Pathology