Gongylonema pulchrum: Gullet worm

General Description: Gongylonema, reaching 14.5 cm., may be identified by the longitudinal rows of circular raised thickenings on the worm´s forward end.

Life Cycle: Eggs passed in the host´s faeces hatch after being eaten by dung beetles, in which the larvae develop to the infective stage. Horses become infected by eating these beetles. The route of migration of the larvae to the oesophagus is not known.

Location: Lies embedded in the mucosa of the oesophagus in a zigzag fashion.

Geographical Distribution: Worldwide.

Significance: Gongylonema is of little or no clinical significance.

Effect on Host: Mild chronic oesophageal irritation.

Diagnostic Information: Identification of lice found on the coat and skin.

Control: None recommended, other than normal sanitary measures including manure removal.