What is the recommended treatment for Rhodococcus equi infection in equines?

The recommended treatment for Rhodococcus equi infection in equines is indeed the combination of erythromycin and rifampin. This bacterial pathogen primarily affects young foals and can lead to severe pneumonia and other systemic issues. Erythromycin acts as a macrolide antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis, effectively reducing the bacterial load. When combined with rifampin, which inhibits bacterial RNA synthesis, this treatment regimen can synergistically enhance effectiveness against Rhodococcus equi.

The choice of this combination over other antibiotics is critical because Rhodococcus equi has demonstrated resistance to many other common antibiotics, making erythromycin and rifampin the preferred therapeutic approach. Additionally, it is important for veterinarians to monitor the foal's clinical response and adjust treatment as necessary, as this infection can lead to serious complications if not adequately managed early on.