[Examination of the ovarian activity of mares using progesterone profiles].

The research article details an analysis of the ovarian activity in mares using progesterone profiles via clinical procedures including an enzyme immuno assay. It identifies the progesterone level measurement as a suitable means to determine ovulation timing, indicating that it’s useful 1-2 days after ovulation. The study also identifies different progesterone profile developments in normocyclic mares, implying an insufficient development of the corpus luteum, and discusses the importance of progesterone level determination in diagnosing mares with gynaecological issues.

Research Methodology

• The research involved clinical and analytical procedures, specifically the usage of enzyme immuno assay for progesterone tests using the microtiterplate method. This technique was deployed to examine the ovarian activity of 27 mares over several weeks.
• The time of ovulation was determined by measuring progesterone levels, proving that this method is effective in the 1-2 days post-ovulation period.

Findings

• In normocyclic mares (n = 17), different developments of the progesterone profile were observed, suggesting an insufficient development of the corpus luteum in 35% of the cases. The corpus luteum is important as it secretes progesterone to preserve pregnancy in mares.
• Continuous measurement of progesterone for 30 days or more highlighted that six out of ten mares with irregularities in their estrous cycle were found to have a persistent corpus luteum. This highlighted how progesterone measurement can be an effective diagnostic tool in identifying ovarian irregularities.
• Four of the evaluated mares exhibited complete inactivity of the ovaries, suggesting the need for gynaecological intervention.

Implications and Conclusion

• The research underlines the clinical importance of determining progesterone levels as a routine diagnostic measure for mares with gynaecological problems.
• The findings suggest that an examination of progesterone profiles can provide valuable insights into mare’s ovarian activity, and point to potential abnormalities in their reproductive cycles. This can ultimately aid veterinarians in diagnosing and treating gynaecological issues more accurately.