Gross placental morphology and foal serum biochemistry as predictors of foal health.

The study investigated if certain blood biochemistry variations in newborn foals correlated with abnormalities in the placenta and if they could act as early indicators of health issues. The authors concluded that higher levels of serum creatinine and lower concentrations of blood glucose at birth, particularly in foals born from visibly abnormal placentas, could predict the risk of particular newborn illnesses.

Objectives of the Research

• The primary goal of this study was to determine if a specific set of blood tests performed at birth could identify foals at risk of developing health issues, specifically placental dysfunction. These potential markers were changes in blood glucose, creatinine, urea, and fibrinogen levels.
• The study also aimed to establish a relationship between these blood chemistry variables and any visible abnormalities in the foal’s placenta.

Research Approach

• A total of 92 mares were included in the study, with group one consisting of 68 that delivered healthy foals, and group two made up of 24 mares that birthed sick foals.
• The sick foals primarily suffered from perinatal asphyxia syndrome (PAS) and prematurity/dysmaturity.
• The researchers compared the blood chemistry and placenta morphology (structure and form) of the healthy and sick foals to identify any noteworthy correlations.

Findings of the Study

• The study established that foals that were born sick had higher placental abnormalities compared to those born healthy.
• It was observed that sick foals had higher serum creatinine concentration and lower blood glucose levels at birth compared to healthy foals.
• There was no discernible difference in the blood chemistry results between the sick foals who survived and those who did not.
• The research also found that foals born from visibly abnormal placentas had higher serum creatinine levels.
• Moreover, foals affected by PAS showed higher serum creatinine concentration compared to healthy foals.

Recommendations and Implications

• Drawing from the findings, the study suggests that serum creatinine and blood glucose levels should be tested at birth, especially in foals born from visibly abnormal placentas, as these could serve as early indicators of potential health issues.
• The authors emphasize the importance of considering both clinical and laboratory data to promptly identify and treat foals at a higher risk of developing PAS.