[Changes in several blood and urine parameters during combined hyperfluid therapy for the treatment of chronic obstructive bronchitis (COB) in the horse].

The research paper has focused on studying the changes in certain blood and urine parameters in horses undergoing combined hyperfluid therapy for the treatment of chronic obstructive bronchitis (COB). The research showed that this therapy can result in loss of certain electrolytes and affects urine production and composition.

Objective of the Study

• The study aimed to assess the changes in certain blood and urine parameters, such as hydraemia level (higher fluid levels in the blood), urine production, and the specific weight of urine, when horses with COPD/COB undergo a combined oral and intravenous application of saline solutions.
• The researchers also monitored the changes in serum concentrations and renal excretion rates of potassium, calcium, and magnesium during the treatment.

Observations from the Study

• The scientists found that the hydraemia level resulting from the combined method is almost the same as that from the solely intravenous hyperinfusion therapy.
• The therapy, due to excessive fluid application, results in a high level of urine production, which in turn leads to decreased specific weight and increased renal excretion of potassium, calcium, and magnesium. This indicates a significant loss of these electrolytes due to this treatment.
• It’s also observed that this significant electrolyte loss, apart from causing hydraemia, decreases the corresponding serum concentrations, indicating that the body cannot compensate for the loss of these electrolytes, especially potassium and magnesium, like it does in the case of calcium.
• The research also noted that the increased level of urine production during the therapy could cause glucosuria, a condition that involves the excretion of glucose into the urine.

Significance of the Findings

• These findings suggest that while the combined hyperfluid treatment for horses with COB significantly increases fluid levels and urine production, it also results in substantial loss of important electrolytes, which could have significant implications for the health of the animal. This suggests a need for careful monitoring of these parameters during such treatment protocols.