Sarcoid Laser Surgery
Most people are aware of sarcoids; they have been recognised and reported for many years but despite a significant amount of research, there are still many gaps in our knowledge of them. Sarcoids are a cancer affecting all equids although, unlike other cancers, they do not spread to the internal organs. Nobody fully understands the cause of equine sarcoids, or why some horses are more susceptible than others to developing them. Flies have been implicated in the spread of disease.
Sarcoids can occur anywhere on a horse, although the most common areas are in the groin and the axilla (armpit) where they can interfere with tack, and on the face. There are six different types of sarcoid and they may change (often to a more aggressive form) over time. This can be exacerbated by inappropriate treatment and management. Once a horse has one sarcoid, they often develop more. Sarcoids can affect the performance of a horse and will almost certainly affect its value.
The treatment choice depends on a number of factors, including the type, site and extent of the sarcoid and financial considerations. Treatment can be difficult and some will recur no matter which treatment is tried.
Probably our most common treatment course is the use of ‘AW4 LUDES’ cream, produced and issued by Liverpool University following referral from a veterinary surgeon. This can only be applied by a vet due its toxic effects, both to sarcoids AND normal (including human!) skin and is generally not suitable for sarcoids around the eye.
Sarcoids can be removed surgically although great care must be taken to reduce the risks of leaving some sarcoid behind, or actually spreading the sarcoid around the area at time of surgery. This risk is reduced if a laser is used instead of a normal scalpel blade. Until recently, laser surgery was only available at a small number of referral centres; however we can now carry out laser surgery at Oakhill and can offer competitive prices when compared to other hospitals.
Other treatments include radiation, injecting the sarcoid with BCG vaccine and the application of a strangulating band.
NEVER attempt to treat a sarcoid yourself and in very few cases is a ‘wait and see’ approach a safe option! If you are concerned over a possible sarcoid on your horse or pony it is best to get it checked by a vet and we will discuss the possible treatment options with you.
