Acute lead intoxication in a pregnant mare.

This study details a case of acute lead poisoning in a 9-year-old pregnant American Saddlebred mare, which led to severe neurological deterioration and eventually death. Three lead particles were found in the mare’s gastrointestinal tract at autopsy, and high concentrations of lead were present in the brain, liver, stomach, and kidney.

About the Research

• The research studied a case of severe acute lead (Pb) poisoning in a horse. Severe Pb intoxication in horses typically develops over time with recognizable clinical signs linked to the nervous system, but this case was acute or immediate and had severe consequences.
• The case involved a 9-year-old pregnant American Saddlebred mare. The horse showed progressive neurological deterioration leading to death. The case is unique because of its sudden onset and severe progression.

Clinical Progression

• During the four-day hospitalization, the mare’s condition progressively worsened. Initial symptoms included intermittent headshaking and depression, which eventually escalated to severe continuous uncontrollable manic behavior.
• Despite the medical attention, the condition of the horse worsened with time, leading to her death. Thus, indicating the rapid and fatal manifestation of acute Pb intoxication.

Post-mortem Findings

• At autopsy, three grey-hard metal particles were discovered in the mare’s gastrointestinal tract. Testing revealed that these particles contained lead, with a concentration of 2614 parts per million (ppm). The cause of death was concluded to be the ingestion of these lead particles.
• Lead concentrations were also found in various organs of the horse. The concentrations in the brain, liver, stomach, and kidney were 29 ppm, 4 ppm, 6 ppm, and 2 ppm wet weight, respectively. These concentrations are significantly higher than normal and explain the neurological deterioration observed in the mare.

Conclusion

• This research offers valuable insights into the effects of acute lead toxicity in horses, emphasizing that ingestion of lead can lead to sudden and severe neurological disorders ending in death.
• The findings also highlight the importance of early detection, management, and prevention of lead poisoning in horses, which can only be achieved through regular health monitoring and maintaining a clean and safe environment for these animals.