Question:  Can you identify this mysterious object that has appeared on my chestnut mare?  I have described it to my vet but she could not imagine what it could be.  I have e-mailed her these photographs to her but I have not yet heard back. 

The object appeared about a week ago and has not changed since.  It does not cause my mare any discomfort if manipulated at all.  It's about 3/4 inch (20 mm) long and about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick in the middle of the loop - yes it is fastened at both ends! - and is brown, dry and soft.  (It's been suggested by an unreliable source that it is a dead land leech.)

Answer:  (From the Histopathology Lab.)  'This small portion of tissue is composed of a core of dense collagen surrounded by slightly hyperplstic epidermis with a scant, mixed inflammatory reaction around scattered follicles and adnexal glands.  There is no evidence of neoplasis or specific infection.  The appearance is consistent with a skin tag.  Complete excision of this small, benign lesion will be curative and appears likely to be achieved.  The prognosis is good.

Our vet's comment:  'Good news'

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Liz