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Topic:Clinical Pathology
Clinical pathology in horses involves the study and analysis of biological samples to diagnose and monitor diseases and health conditions. This discipline encompasses various laboratory tests and procedures that assess the physiological and biochemical status of equines. Common analyses include hematology, biochemistry, urinalysis, and cytology, each providing insights into different aspects of equine health. Hematology evaluates blood components, such as red and white blood cells and platelets, to identify conditions like anemia or infection. Biochemistry tests measure enzymes, electrolytes, and metabolites to assess organ function and metabolic status. Urinalysis examines urine samples for indicators of renal function and systemic diseases. Cytology involves the microscopic examination of cells from tissues or fluids to detect abnormalities. This page aggregates peer-reviewed research studies and scholarly articles that explore the methodologies, applications, and diagnostic value of clinical pathology in equine medicine.
Prognostic indicators of poor outcome in horses with laminitis at a tertiary care hospital. This retrospective study investigated the factors associated with a poor outcome (death by euthanasia or from other causes) in horses treated for laminitis at a tertiary care hospital. Cases (n = 247) were defined as patients with laminitis that were euthanized or that died of other causes during hospitalization. Controls (n = 344) were patients with laminitis that survived to be discharged from the hospital. In the final multivariate analysis, the factors significantly associated with an increased risk for death and their respective odds ratios (OR) were as follows: Thoroughbred (OR = 1.57); ...
Influence of the chemical shift artifact on measurements of compact bone thickness in equine distal limb MR images. The effect of the chemical shift artifact, resulting from misregistration or phase cancellation at the interface between compact and trabecular bone, on apparent bone thickness was quantified in six isolated equine limbs. Sagittal T1-weighted spin echo (SE) and in-phase three-dimensional spoiled gradient echo (SPGR) images were acquired twice with a 1.5 T magnetic resonance (MR) unit, switching the frequency encoding direction between acquisitions. Out-of-phase SPGR images were also obtained. MR images with different frequency encoding directions were compared with each other and to radiograph...
Clinical application of Patlak plot CT-GFR in animals with upper urinary tract disease. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR), an important parameter of renal function, is difficult to assess clinically. Serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen measurements lack sensitivity, whereas radionuclide determination of GFR is not always available and requires postinjection patient isolation. GFR can be determined using computed tomography (CT), most commonly via Patlak plot analysis. Four adult cats, two adult dogs, and a foal underwent abdominal CT under general anesthesia for various diseases of the upper urinary tract. CT-GFR was measured with a single-slice dynamic acquisition and Patlak...
Sympathetic innervation of the ileocecal junction in horses. The distribution and chemical phenotypes of sympathetic and dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons innervating the equine ileocecal junction (ICJ) were studied by combining retrograde tracing and immunohistochemistry. Immunoreactivity (IR) for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), dopamine beta-hydroxylase (DBH), neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), substance P (SP), and neuropeptide Y (NPY) was investigated. Sympathetic neurons projecting to the ICJ were distributed within the celiac (CG), cranial mesenteric (CranMG), and caudal mesenteric (CaudMG) ganglia, as well ...
Muscle damage, hydration, electrolyte balance and vasopressin concentrations in successful and exhausted endurance horses. Arginine vasopressin (AVP) is released in response to depletion of the effective circulating blood volume. Endurance horses might develop exhaustion because loss of water and electrolytes in sweat with hypovolaemia and electrolytes abnormalities. Therefore, AVP should act in the control of volemia in these animals. This research evaluates the differences in AVP, hydration, electrolyte status and serum muscle enzymes in successful endurance horses in comparison with those eliminated from the competition because of exhaustion. Eighteen endurance horses, divided into two groups, successful (n = 1...
Morphological and biochemical changes in the blood of horses naturally infected with Gasterophilus sp. larvae. Gasterophilus sp. constitute a group of specific parasites, which larval forms are found in horses and other phylogenetically related species--donkeys, mules and zebras. Their invasion is associated with marked fluctuations of hematological and biochemical blood parameters, including the activity of many enzymes and the electrolyte concentration. The purpose of the study was to analyze changes in selected biochemical and morphological blood parameters of horses infected with botfly larvae. The experimental group was formed of horses infested by Gasterophilus sp. larvae whereas the control grou...
Incidence of transfusion reactions to commercial equine plasma. To report on the incidence of transfusion reactions to commercial equine plasma in a hospital-based population of horses, to characterize these reactions and report on outcome. Methods: Retrospective study. Methods: University teaching hospital. Methods: Client-owned horses referred to the University of Wisconsin. Methods: Intravenous administration of 2 commercial equine plasma products when clinically indicated. Results: Medical records of 107 horses that received plasma transfusions between 2003 and 2008 were evaluated. Transfusion reactions were recorded in 6 of 107 transfusions. All indiv...
Pregnancy influences the hematological profile of Carthusian broodmares. In order to investigate the effect of pregnancy on equine hematological profile, venous blood samples were taken from 44 Carthusian broodmares every two weeks during pregnancy, divided into three periods: I (conception to 110 days), II (111-220 days) and III (222 days to delivery). Routine hematological analysis was performed. Packed cell volume (PCV) increased in period II probably as a consequence of the climatic conditions or as a result of physical stress of lactation during period I. After that, a reduction in PCV was found but this was not matched with a similar decrease in total serum p...
Comparison of hematologic and biochemical results on blood obtained by jugular venipuncture as compared with intravenous catheter in adult horses. During hospitalization, horses typically undergo frequent blood sampling for diagnostic testing and monitoring. The need for numerous samples in hospitalized horses makes acquisition from an intravenous catheter (IVC) both convenient and less stressful to the patient. Objective: We hypothesized that there would be no significant difference in the plasma chemistry and CBC variables from blood samples obtained from a jugular catheter as compared with direct jugular venipuncture. Methods: Fifty adult hospitalized horses; 25 receiving constant rate crystalloid therapy, and 25 receiving low volume ...
In vitro selection and differentiation of ivermectin resistant cyathostomin larvae. Cyathostomins are considered to be the primary helminth pathogen of horses and macrocyclic lactones (ML) are the most frequently used anthelmintics. Therefore, ML resistance is a serious threat for the control of these parasites. In the present study ivermectin resistant cyathostomin L3 were in vitro selected, using a reiterative larval migration inhibition assay (rLMIA) and differentiated by reverse line blot (RLB). Larvae were obtained from two populations, one from a never treated, free-roaming horse population in the nature reserve Oostvaardersplassen (OVP) and the other from regularly ive...
Cross-sectional area of the tendons of the tarsal region in Standardbred trotter horses. The assessment of a normal range for cross-sectional area (CSA) of tendons in the tarsal region is important in order to use them as reference values in the identification of pathological changes of dimensions. Objective: To provide normal reference values for the CSA of the tendons of the tarsus of Standardbred trotter horses (STH) by means of ultrasonography. Methods: Transverse echographic images of the tendons were obtained at different levels proximodistally; these images were digitised and CSA values (mean ± s.d.) were obtained for each structure. Results: The largest structure correspo...
Laparoscopic techniques for investigating the equine oviduct. The diagnostic and therapeutic options for oviduct disorders in the mare are limited. The current best techniques require exploratory surgery under general anaesthesia or flank laparotomy. Objective: The orthograde flushing of the oviduct for diagnostic or therapeutic options is possible using laparoscopic techniques in the standing sedated mare. Methods: Development of a laparoscopic technique for catheterisation of the infundibulum and flushing of the oviduct (sterile methylene blue solution) in the standing sedated mare was examined in 2 experiments. The first involved a transvaginal laparo...
Concentrated bone marrow aspirate improves full-thickness cartilage repair compared with microfracture in the equine model. The purpose of this study was to compare the outcomes of treatment with bone marrow aspirate concentrate, a simple, one-step, autogenous, and arthroscopically applicable method, with the outcomes of microfracture with regard to the repair of full-thickness cartilage defects in an equine model. Methods: Extensive (15-mm-diameter) full-thickness cartilage defects were created on the lateral trochlear ridge of the femur in twelve horses. Bone marrow was aspirated from the sternum and centrifuged to generate the bone marrow concentrate. The defects were treated with bone marrow concentrate and mic...
Which anatomical region determines a positive flexion test of the distal aspect of a forelimb in a nonlame horse? The flexion test is used routinely as part of lameness and prepurchase examinations. However, little is known about the mechanisms that cause a positive response to a flexion test. Objective: To determine which anatomical regions play a role in a positive outcome of a flexion test of the distal aspect of a forelimb in a nonlame horse. Methods: Eight clinically sound Dutch Warmblood horses were subjected to a standardised flexion test (force 250 N, time 60 s) inducing a consistent lameness. To discriminate between different areas of the distal aspect of a forelimb, effects of various nerve bloc...
Use of blood culture medium enrichment for synovial fluid culture in horses: a comparison of different culture methods. Standard methods for culturing equine synovial fluid (SF) are often unrewarding. Evidence-based information on the relative efficiency of different systems used for optimisation of isolation of microorganisms from equine SF is lacking. Objective: To compare the results of different culture systems performed in parallel on SF samples from horses clinically diagnosed with synovial sepsis. Methods: Synovial fluid specimens were collected between February 2007 and October 2008 from all horses admitted to a referral hospital that were clinically diagnosed with synovial sepsis and from control horse...
Pathology of lethal peripartum broad ligament haematoma in 31 Thoroughbred mares. Broad ligament haemorrhage in peripartum mares is a life-threatening disease and there are few reports on the aetiology and pathogenesis of broad ligament haematoma. Objective: To obtain information regarding the sites for the early diagnosis and pathogenesis of broad ligament haematoma of mares. Methods: Thirty-one mares that died of broad ligament haematoma peripartum were examined pathologically for bleeding sites. The arterial distribution of 5 young mares with several parities served as negative controls. Results: Age and/or multiparity were the predisposing factors for the disease. Arter...
Colic in geriatric compared to mature nongeriatric horses. Part 1: Retrospective review of clinical and laboratory data. It is the impression of some surgeons that geriatric horses have a lower survival rate compared to mature nongeriatric horses following colic surgery. One possible reason for this is that geriatric horses may be more critically ill at admission and have more severe disease than mature nongeriatric horses. Objective: To compare admission historical, physical examination and laboratory data for geriatric and mature nongeriatric horses referred for signs of colic. Methods: Medical records of horses admitted with a presenting complaint of colic between 2000 and 2006 were reviewed. Geriatric horses...
Distribution of radiodense contrast medium after perineural injection of the palmar and palmar metacarpal nerves (low 4-point nerve block): an in vivo and ex vivo study in horses. Evidence-based information is limited on distribution of local anaesthetic solution following perineural analgesia of the palmar (Pa) and palmar metacarpal (PaM) nerves in the distal aspect of the metacarpal (Mc) region ('low 4-point nerve block'). Objective: To demonstrate the potential distribution of local anaesthetic solution after a low 4-point nerve block using a radiographic contrast model. Methods: A radiodense contrast medium was injected subcutaneously over the medial or the lateral Pa nerve at the junction of the proximal three-quarters and distal quarter of the Mc region (Pa inject...
Romifidine as a constant rate infusion in isoflurane anaesthetized horses: a clinical study. To evaluate the effects of a constant rate infusion (CRI) of romifidine on the requirement of isoflurane, cardiovascular performance and recovery in anaesthetized horses undergoing arthroscopic surgery. Methods: Randomized blinded prospective clinical trial. Methods: Thirty horses scheduled for routine arthroscopy. Methods: After premedication (acepromazine 0.02 mg kg(-1), romifidine 80 microg kg(-1), methadone 0.1 mg kg(-1)) and induction (midazolam 0.06 mg kg(-1) ketamine 2.2 mg kg(-1)), anaesthesia was maintained with isoflurane in oxygen. Horses were assigned randomly to receive a CRI of s...
Comparison of methods for depletion of albumin and IgG from equine serum. Disease-specific biomarkers hold diagnostic promise in both human and veterinary medicine, but serum biomarkers in low concentrations may be masked by the presence of abundant proteins, mostly albumin and IgG. Methods to deplete albumin and IgG exist, but efficacy of these methods for depleting equine serum of these proteins has not been established. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine if albumin and IgG could be depleted from equine serum using several commercially available kits and procedures. Methods: One-dimensional gel electrophoresis followed by densitometry was used to de...
A weighted osteon morphotype score outperforms regional osteon percent prevalence calculations for interpreting cortical bone adaptation. Using circularly polarized light microscopy,we described a weighted-scoring method for quantifying regional distributions of six secondary osteon morphotypes(Skedros et al.: Bone 44 (2009) 392-403). This osteon morphotype score (MTS) strongly correlated with "tension" and "compression" cortices produced by habitual bending. In the present study, we hypothesized that the osteon MTS is superior to a relatively simpler method based on the percent prevalence (PP) of these osteon morphotypes. This was tested in proximal femoral diaphyses of adult chimpanzees and habitually bent bones: calcanei from...
Removal of 11 incompletely erupted, impacted cheek teeth in 10 horses using a dental alveolar transcortical osteotomy and buccotomy approach. To describe surgical technique and outcome in 10 horses with impacted cheek teeth that were removed by a transcortical osteotomy and buccotomy technique. Methods: Case series. Methods: Horses (n=10) with impacted cheek teeth. Methods: Medical records (2002-2008) of horses with impacted cheek teeth requiring removal were reviewed; surgical technique and outcome were determined. Results: Exodontia of 11 cheek teeth was performed surgically in 10 horses; 3 horses had complications (residual swelling of the mandible) that resolved and all horses returned to their previous use. Conclusions: Transco...
Maggot debridement therapy for laminitis. Maggot debridement therapy is a nontraumatic, minimally invasive method to treat infections in a foot compromised by chronic laminitis. A mechanical strategy must first be in place to address the instability of the distal phalanx and hoof capsule. Adverse reactions to maggot debridement therapy are uncommon and the only side effect observed has been irritation or hypersensitivity at the site. Chronic laminitic cases of sepsis/necrosis within the hoof benefit from this procedure due to the noninvasive, continuous debridement and healing properties provided by the larvae.
The effects of pentoxifylline on equine platelet aggregation. Pentoxifylline (PTX) possesses a number of vasomotor, immunomodulatory, and hemorheologic properties. Based upon the hypothesis that equine laminitis and navicular disease result from microthrombosis, the inhibitory effects of PTX on inflammatory cytokines, and its inhibitory effects on human platelet aggregation, PTX has been widely used to treat equine endotoxemia, navicular disease, and laminitis. Despite this, the effects of PTX on equine platelet aggregation have not been investigated previously. Objective: PTX decreases platelet aggregation in equine whole blood at concentrations approxi...
