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Topic:Diagnostic Technique
Diagnostic techniques in equine medicine encompass a range of procedures and tools used to identify diseases, injuries, or other health conditions in horses. These techniques include imaging methods such as radiography, ultrasonography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), as well as laboratory tests like blood work and tissue biopsies. Each diagnostic method provides specific information that can aid in the assessment and management of equine health issues. Radiography is commonly used for evaluating bone structures, while ultrasonography is useful for soft tissue examination. MRI offers detailed images of both soft and hard tissues, though its use is limited by cost and availability. Laboratory tests can detect biochemical and hematological changes indicative of disease. This page compiles peer-reviewed research studies and scholarly articles that explore the development, application, and efficacy of various diagnostic techniques in equine veterinary practice.
A sensitive nested real-time RT-PCR for the detection of Shuni virus. Recently Shuni virus (SHUV) has been identified in clinical cases of neurological disease in horses in South Africa. Being that it was one of the less recognized orthobunyaviruses, with limited clinical descriptions of disease dating back to the 1960s and 1970s, SHUV-specific assays were never developed. In this study, the development of a nested real-time PCR assay is described for the detection of SHUV by means of melt-curve analysis using fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) probe technology. The assay was validated against previously positive clinical specimens and a dilution seri...
The applicability of ambulatory electroencephalography (AEEG) in healthy horses and horses with abnormal behaviour or clinical signs of epilepsy. Short-duration electroencephalography (EEG) recordings in horses are helpful in diagnosing intracranial disorders. Potentially, long-duration ambulatory EEG (AEEG) recordings in horses will enhance the chance of detecting abnormal brain activity independent of the presence of an insult. Objective: The objective of this study was to test if AEEG recordings in unsedated horses can be acquired and benefit diagnosing abnormal brain activity. Methods: Recordings were taken from 8 adult control horses and 10 patients suspected of intracranial abnormalities. Self-adhesive electrodes and the 'Porti-5'...
Evaluation of a broad range real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay for the diagnosis of septic synovitis in horses. Septic synovitis is a potentially debilitating and life-threatening disorder in horses. We hypothesized that a universal bacterial real-time PCR (RT-PCR) assay would have improved sensitivity and decreased turn-around time for detection of bacteria in synovial fluid (SF) samples. Forty-eight SF samples were collected from 36 horses that presented to two referral institutions with suspected septic synovitis. Universal RT-PCR, bacterial culture and SF analysis were performed on all samples, and an interpretation on the sample being septic or not was derived by three board certified specialists f...
Validation of a novel translumbar ultrasound technique for measuring renal dimensions in horses. A reliable method for obtaining renal ultrasonographic measurements in the horse is important for diagnosis and monitoring of clinical renal disease. The aims of this prospective study were to develop and validate a novel translumbar ultrasound technique for measuring renal dimensions in horses. Six Thoroughbred or Thoroughbred part bred horses were recruited. All horses were scheduled for euthanasia due to reasons unrelated to the kidneys. Two observers recorded renal length, width, and depth; and dimensions of the cortex, medulla, pyramids, and pelvis for both kidneys in each horse using nov...
Meningoencephalitis caused by Halicephalobus gingivalis in a thoroughbred gelding. A 6-year-old Thoroughbred gelding was euthanized after a 2-month period of abnormal neurological signs, such as circling left in his pen and hitting his head and body against the wall. After the horse was euthanized on the farm, a half of the brain and whole blood were submitted for diagnostic tests. Histopathological examination of the brain revealed granulomatous and eosinophilic meningoencephalitis with numerous intralesional nematodes, predominantly affecting the cerebrum. Multifocal malacic foci were scattered in the brain parenchyma. The intralesional parasites were identified as Halicep...
Use of a hand-assisted laparoscopic surgical technique for closure of an extensive mesojejunal rent in a horse. A 7-year-old 573-kg (1,261 -lb) Swiss Warmblood gelding was evaluated because of signs of acute abdominal pain. Results: Physical examination revealed a markedly distended abdomen with subjectively reduced borborygmi in all abdominal quadrants. A large, gas-distended viscus was present at the pelvic brim preventing complete palpation of the abdomen per rectum. Ultrasonographic evaluation could not be safely performed in the initial evaluation because of severe signs of abdominal pain. Results: Ventral midline celiotomy was performed, and right dorsal displacement of the ascending colon was cor...
Scintigraphic comparison of intra-arterial injection and distal intravenous regional limb perfusion for administration of mesenchymal stem cells to the equine foot. Intra-arterial (i.a.) and intravenous (i.v.) regional limb perfusions (RLP) through the median artery and cephalic vein, respectively, have been previously investigated for administration of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to the equine distal limb. Limitations due to thrombosis of the arteries after i.a. RLP and poor distribution of MSCs to the foot with i.v. RLP were observed. These techniques need to be modified for clinical use. Objective: Evaluate the distribution, uptake and persistence of radiolabelled MSCs after i.a. injection through the median artery without a tourniquet and after i.v....
Superficial digital flexor tendonitis in cutting horses: 19 cases (2007-2011). To characterize superficial digital flexor (SDF) tendon lesions in the forelimbs of cutting horses and determine recurrence rate and prognosis for this condition. Methods: Retrospective case series. Methods: 19 cutting horses with SDF tendonitis. Methods: Medical records for horses evaluated for SDF tendonitis in 2007 through 2011 were reviewed. Data regarding age, sex, lameness grade, affected limb, and treatment were collected. Ultrasonographic images were reviewed, and lesion characteristics were recorded. Follow-up telephone interviews with owners or trainers were conducted to determine re...
The rabbit as an infection model for equine proliferative enteropathy. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the susceptibility of rabbits to Lawsonia intracellularis obtained from a case of clinical equine proliferative enteropathy (EPE). This is a preliminary step toward developing a rabbit infection model for studying pathogenesis and therapy of EPE in horses. Nine does were equally assigned to 3 groups. Animals in 2 groups (Group 1 and Group 2) were orally inoculated with different doses of cell-cultured L. intracellularis. Controls (Group 3) were sham-inoculated. Feces and blood were collected before the rabbits were infected and at 7, 14, and 21 da...
Identification of Actinomyces denticolens as a cause of a soft tissue abscess in a horse. A 6-year-old Arabian mare had a 4-week history of a subcutaneous mass (15 × 15 cm) at the base of the neck, cranial and distal to the prescapular lymph node on the right side. The mass was solid and painful on deep palpation. Ultrasonographic examination showed a soft-tissue abscess. Purulent aspirate was submitted for bacterial culture, which showed a moderate growth of an Actinomyces species. 16S rRNA gene sequencing was performed for definitive identification. Gene sequencing demonstrated close nucleotide homology with A. denticolens. Prolonged therapeutic management resulted in resolu...
Bacteriological and Molecular Detection of Streptococcus equi subsp. equi and Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus in Equines of Northern India. Present study was undertaken to study the prevalence of β-haemolytic streptococci in equine of northern temperate region of Jammu and Kashmir, India. One hundred and forty one samples were collected in duplicate from nasopharyngeal tract of diseased (53) and apparently healthy equine (88) for isolation and direct PCR. A total of 77 isolates of streptococci were recovered from 141 samples with an overall prevalence rate of 54.60%. Out of these 77 isolates, 52 were from diseased and 25 from apparently healthy animals. Of the 77 isolates, 4 were identified as Streptococcus equi subsp. equi, 56 a...
Evaluation of the PATHFAST Chemiluminescent Enzyme Immunoassay for Measuring Progesterone in Whole Blood and Serum of Mares. Evaluation of a new chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassay, the PATHFAST assay system (PATHFAST), for measurement of circulating progesterone in mares was performed. Five mares at the mid-luteal stage were administrated a single i.m. injection of prostaglandin F2α analog (PGF2α; cloprostenol 250 μg/ml), and then blood samples were collected from the jugular vein at 0, 15, 30 and 45 min, at one-hour intervals until 24 and at 48 hr via a catheter in the jugular vein. To monitor the physiological changes in circulating progesterone in mares after induced luteolysis, concentrations of progesterone...
Comparison of superficial digital flexor tendon loading on asphalt and sand in horses at the walk and trot. The incidence of superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) injuries is one of the highest of all equine musculoskeletal conditions. Horses with SDFT injuries commonly show no improvement of lameness on soft ground, unlike those suffering from distal bone or joint lesions. The aim of this study was to compare the SDFT loading in five horses at the walk and trot on asphalt and sand using a non-invasive ultrasonic tendon force measurement device. Three horses were equipped with the ultrasonic device, whereas the other two horses were equipped with the ultrasonic device and a dynamometric horseshoe...
Effect of lungeing on head and pelvic movement asymmetry in horses with induced lameness. Lungeing is an important part of lameness examinations, since the circular path enforced during lungeing is thought to accentuate low grade lameness. However, during lungeing the movement of sound horses becomes naturally asymmetric, which may mimic lameness. Also, compensatory movements in the opposite half of the body may mimic lameness. The aim of this study was to objectively study the presence of circle-dependent and compensatory movement asymmetries in horses with induced lameness. Ten horses were trotted in a straight line and lunged in both directions on a hard surface. Lameness was in...
Comparison of microgyro-based measurements of equine metatarsal/metacarpal bone to a high speed video locomotion analysis system during treadmill locomotion. The aim of this study was to compare an inertial motion system (IMS) to an optical based locomotion analysis system measuring limb sagittal segment angles in horses at the walk and trot. The metatarsal/metacarpal bones of two horses (20 trials) were fitted with optical system markers and an IMS. Between the systems, measuring range of motion (ROM) of the sagittal metatarsal/metacarpal bone angles, the IMS measured higher ROM than the optical system (bias 1.6°; precision at 1.96 standard deviation 1.9°). The same angle data were used to assess inter-limb symmetry by calculating phase shift be...
Head and pelvic movement symmetry in horses during circular motion and in rising trot. Lameness examinations in horses often include lungeing and ridden exercise. To incorporate these exercises into the evidence-based decision making process aided by quantitative sensor based gait analysis, guideline values for movement asymmetry are needed. In this study, movement symmetry (MS) was quantified in horses during unridden and ridden trot on the straight and on the circle. Systematic changes in MS were expected as a result of the 'asymmetrical loading' caused by circular movement, the rising trot and the combination of the two. Out of 23 horses (age 4-20 years, height 13.3-17.2 hand...
Pressure plate analysis of toe-heel and medio-lateral hoof balance at the walk and trot in sound sport horses. Empirically, equine distal limb lameness is often linked to hoof imbalance. To objectively quantify dynamic toe-heel and medio-lateral hoof balance of the vertical ground reaction force in sound sport horses, seven Royal Dutch Sport Horses were led at the walk and trot over a dynamically calibrated pressure plate. Forelimb hoof prints were divided into a toe and heel region and a medial and lateral zone. Toe-heel and medio-lateral hoof balance of the vertical ground reaction force were calculated throughout the stance. Toe-heel balance was highly symmetrical between contralateral limbs at both...
Applications of a New Handheld Reference Point Indentation Instrument Measuring Bone Material Strength. A novel, hand-held Reference Point Indentation (RPI) instrument, measures how well the bone of living patients and large animals resists indentation. The results presented here are reported in terms of Bone Material Strength, which is a normalized measure of how well the bone resists indentation, and is inversely related to the indentation distance into the bone. We present examples of the instrument's use in: (1) laboratory experiments on bone, including experiments through a layer of soft tissue, (2) three human clinical trials, two ongoing in Barcelona and at the Mayo Clinic, and one comple...
Actinobacillus equuli ssp. haemolyticus in a semi-occlusively treated horse bite wound in a 2-year-old girl. We report on the isolation of Actinobacillus equuli ssp. haemolyticus from wound smears of a 2-year-old girl who was admitted to the hospital due to partial amputation of the distal phalanx of her right middle finger caused by a horse bite. A. equuli typically causes diseases in horses and only very few reports describing human infections (mostly associated with wounds) are available in the literature. Interestingly, although the bacteria could be found in consecutive samples taken at different points in time, there were no signs of advancing infection or inflammation. Moreover, the fingertip ...
Isolation of RNA from equine peripheral blood cells: comparison of methods. Gene expression studies in equine research involve the use of whole blood samples as a vital source of RNA. To determine the optimal method for RNA isolation from equine whole blood, we compared three RNA isolation strategies using different commercially available kits to evaluate the yield and quality of equine RNA. All 3 methods produced RNA with high quality. Though it did not produce the highest yield, combining the quality, yield and the need for the downstream application in our project, LeukoLOCK™ total RNA isolation system was the best RNA extraction method.
Role of equine herpesviruses as co-infecting agents in cases of abortion, placental disease and neonatal foal mortality. Herpesviral infections frequently occur in horses. The objective of this study was to investigate the possible association of equine herpesviruses (EHV-1, EHV-2, EHV-3, EHV-4, EHV-5) with other causes of abortion, neonatal mortality or placental disorder. Sixty-seven abortions, 22 stillbirths, 14 cases of neonatal foal mortality and 3 cases of placental disease were investigated for infectious and non-infectious causes. Type-specific nested PCR assays and virus isolation were performed to detect EHV infections. A cause of fetal loss or placental disease was reached in 68 out 116 (58.7%) cases....
Comparison of components of biological variation between 3 equine thromboelastography assays. There is a paucity of information about the analytical performance of thromboelastography (TEG) in horses, specifically concerning components of variation among different analytical methods. Such data may be obtained by nested analysis of repetitive standardized sampling of healthy individuals. Objective: The objectives were (1) to assess the relative susceptibility to sources of preanalytical variation in a highly standardized setting, (2) to directly compare and evaluate the observed analytical variation, and (3) to assess the applicability of population-based reference intervals. Methods: B...
Elastographic characteristics of the metacarpal tendons in horses without clinical evidence of tendon injury. Tendon and ligament injuries are common causes of impaired performance in equine athletes. Gray-scale ultrasonography is the current standard method for diagnosing and monitoring these injuries, however this modality only provides morphologic information. Elastography is an ultrasound technique that allows detection and measurement of tissue strain, and may provide valuable mechanical information about equine tendon and ligament injuries. The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility, reproducibility, and repeatability of elastography; and to describe elastographic characteristics...
Accuracy of low-field magnetic resonance imaging versus radiography for guiding injection of equine distal interphalangeal joint collateral ligaments. Desmopathy of the distal interphalangeal joint collateral ligament is a common cause of lameness in the horse and carries a variable prognosis for soundness. Intralesional treatment has been proposed for improving outcome; however, limited reports describe methods for injecting this ligament. The purpose of this study was to compare accuracy of low-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) vs. radiography for injecting the collateral ligament of the distal interphalangeal joint. Equine cadaver digit pairs (n = 10) were divided by random assignment to injection of the ligament by either technique....
Estimation of vertical tuber coxae movement in the horse from a single inertial measurement unit. Pelvic movement is altered in hind limb lame horses. A simple method using one inertial measurement unit (IMU) attached to the sacrum, which objectively measures 'hip hike', will help detecting hind limb lameness in large scale studies. In this study, IMUs over the sacrum and the left and right tuber coxae (TC) quantified vertical movement symmetry (MS) in 10 clinically lame horses. A simple geometrical model was used to estimate TC movement from the sacrum IMU. The differences between measured and estimated MS values (mean±SD) and MS changes during different exercise conditions (straight, ci...
The origin of amniotic polymorphonuclear leucocytes in the mare. The objective of this study was to investigate the presence and origin of polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNLs) in the amniotic fluid of mares giving birth to healthy foals. Material from 25 mares was included. Amniotic fluid was collected during parturition before breakage of the amniotic vesicle. Manual microscopic cytologic evaluation was made on cytospin preparations after staining. PMNLs were found in all amniotic samples examined. The genomic DNA was extracted from 12 of the amniotic fluid samples and was genotyped. The results indicate that the PMNLs originate from the foetus.
Serial viscoelastic and traditional coagulation testing in horses with gastrointestinal disease. Objectives of this study were to compare the ability of serial thromboelastography, Sonoclot, and traditional coagulation panels to detect coagulopathies associated with disease category, systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), complications, and nonsurvival in horses with gastrointestinal disease. Methods: Prospective clinical evaluation. Methods: University referral hospital. Methods: One hundred twenty-one horses admitted as emergencies for gastrointestinal disease and 28 healthy adult horses. Methods: Blood samples were collected ≤4 times from emergency horses (admission and if s...
Phospholipids in sera of horses with summer eczema: lipid analysis of the autoserum preparation used in therapy. Equine summer eczema, also known as insect bite hypersensitivity, affects horses recurrently during summer months. The treatment of this allergic pruritus is difficult and therefore there is a need for efficacious treatments. Autoserum therapy, based on the use of autogenous serum that is specifically prepared for oral administration and given when the animal shows clinical signs has been introduced recently. Lipids are thought to be responsible for the effect of this therapy. Objective: The main aim of this study was to analyse the phospholipid content of autogenous serum preparations and to ...
Temporal trends in prevalence of bacteria isolated from foals with sepsis: 1979-2010. Sepsis is an important cause of death in foals. Knowledge of which pathogens are likely to be involved is important for selection of antimicrobial drugs for initial treatment. Objective: To identify temporal trends in prevalence of bacteria isolated from foals with sepsis between 1979 and 2010. Methods: Retrospective review of medical records. Methods: All foals ≤30 days of age presented to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital (VMTH) at the University of California, Davis between 1979 and 2010, with a diagnosis of sepsis confirmed by culture of bacteria from blood or internal organs (ant...
Temporal trends in in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of bacteria isolated from foals with sepsis: 1979-2010. Monitoring the development of antimicrobial resistance is important for the rational selection of appropriate antimicrobial drugs to initiate treatment of foals with sepsis. Objective: To identify temporal trends in antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of bacteria isolated from foals with sepsis. Methods: Retrospective review of medical records. Methods: Foals aged <30 days with a diagnosis of sepsis, confirmed by culture of bacteria, were included. Susceptibility data, expressed as minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) (MIC50 , MIC90 , MIC range) and percent of isolates that were suscepti...
