Equine isoerythrolysis–clinical pathological observations and transfusion of dam’s red blood cells to her foal.

This research article discusses a case study of equine isoerythrolysis, a condition where red blood cells of a foal agglutinate or clump due to antibodies in the dam’s (mother horse’s) milk, and how a red blood cell transfusion from the mother to her foal resolved the issue. This study also takes note of the related abnormalities such as high plasma transaminase activity, low blood sugar, low gamma globulin, and kidney distress in the foal.

Case Description and Initial Findings

• The article revolves around an observed case of equine isoerythrolysis in a foal at its fifth day post-birth.
• The condition is characterized by the strong reaction or agglutination of the foal’s red blood cells (RBC) to plasma and milk from the mare (mother). This reaction indicates the presence of antibodies in the mare’s biological fluids that recognize the foal’s RBC as foreign, leading to agglutination or clumping.

Transfusion Procedure

• As part of the treatment procedure, the researchers separated one liter of the mare’s RBC from her plasma. These were subsequently washed three times with saline to lessen the risk of an antibody reaction.
• The washed RBC were then successfully transfused into the foal. The use of the mother’s own RBC ensured compatibility with the foal’s immune system, minimizing the risk of another agglutination episode.

Additional Clinical Findings

• The foal, apart from agglutination, also presented with several abnormalities. It was found to have elevated plasma transaminase activity, which often points to liver damage or inflammation.
• The foal also had hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and hypogammaglobinemia (low levels of gamma globulins – a type of protein made by the immune system), both of which could compromise its overall health and immunity.
• Kidney ’embarrassment’ or distress was also noted, indicating possible harm to the foal’s kidney function due to the isoerythrolysis.

Discussion of Findings

• The observed changes in various plasma constituents of the foal due to equine isoerythrolysis were discussed. Understanding these changes can provide valuable insights into how isoerythrolysis affects young foals, and consequently, aid in developing better treatment strategies for the same.