Gastric ulceration in horses: 91 cases (1987-1990).

The research article explores the occurrence of gastric ulceration in horses, with a particular focus on those exhibiting abdominal discomfort. It demonstrates that gastric ulceration is a common condition among horses and may often be the primary cause of colic.

Methodology and Study Population

• The study was performed on 111 horses aged between 1 to 22 years, who showed signs of abdominal discomfort of various durations and degrees of severity.
• The researchers used gastroendoscopy to examine these horses. This method allows a detailed examination of the horse’s esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestines.

Findings of the Study

• Gastric ulcers were discovered in 91 out of 111 horses examined – a significant majority of the study population.
• A significant number of horses examined had experienced at least one episode of colic within 48 hours before the examination, or recurrent episodes within 2 to 60 days or more after the initial examination.
• Among the 91 horses with gastric ulcers, no other abnormalities involving the gastrointestinal tract or other abdominal viscera were found in 57 horses.
• However, 34 horses with gastric ulcers had concurrent abnormalities such as large colon impaction, colonic tympany, peritonitis, gastric impaction, ileocecal intussusception, small-colon impaction, and proximal enteritis.

Correlation Between Gastric Ulcers and Colic

• Gastric ulceration was determined to be the primary cause of colic in 31 horses. This conclusion was based on the absence of other abnormalities, the response of these horses to treatment with histamine type-2 receptor (H2) antagonists, and the confirmation of improvement or resolution of gastric ulceration via endoscopy.
• Furthermore, gastric ulceration was also suspected to be the cause of colic in an additional 26 horses, based on similar criteria.

Conclusion of the Study

• The research hence indicates a strong correlation between gastric ulceration and colic in horses. It suggests that gastric ulceration is a common condition among horses and could often be the leading cause of colic.