Effects of echinocytosis on hemorrheologic values and exercise performance in horses.

The study explored the impact of echinocytosis on blood rheology and exercise performance in Thoroughbred horses. The research revealed that despite causing an increase in red blood cell density, echinocytosis did not affect whole blood viscosity or hinder microvascular blood flow, nor did it significantly impair the horses’ exercise capabilities.

Method and Procedure

• The researchers conducted the experiment on 5 Thoroughbreds.
• Echinocytosis was induced in the horses through the administration of furosemide.
• This treatment was given at a dosage of 1 mg/kg of body weight, given intramuscularly, every 12 hours for a period of 4 days.

Results of the Study

• Furosemide treatment led to reductions in serum sodium and serum chloride concentrations, as well as in red blood cell (RBC) chloride and potassium concentrations.
• Echinocytosis was associated with an increase in RBC density, as determined by RBC density gradient centrifugation.
• However, blood samples containing echinocytes were found to be more filterable than the controls, suggesting that these cells are not rigid.
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate decreased in blood samples containing echinocytes, indicating a reduced cell-to-cell interaction.
• The presence of echinocytes did not alter the whole blood viscosity.
• Echinocytes did not affect the horses’ ability to complete treadmill exercise tests, nor did they affect heart rate or blood gas variables.

Exercise Impact of Echinocytosis

• Despite these general findings, a higher concentration of plasma lactate was discovered in samples collected during exercise at a certain treadmill speed.
• Echinocytosis was associated with higher post-exercise creatine kinase activity.

Conclusion

• The data suggests that echinocytes, despite being denser cells, have a decreased tendency to aggregate and don’t increase whole blood viscosity.
• Therefore, it is unlikely that the presence of echinocytes would inhibit or obstruct the flow of blood in the microvascular system.