Hemoperitoneum in horses: 67 cases (1989-2004).

This study reviews and evaluates clinical findings, causes, and short-term outcomes related to hemoperitoneum (internal bleeding into the abdomen) in horses. Using historic medical records from 1989 to 2004, it specifically looked at clinical data from 67 horses of various breeds, noting their symptoms, diagnostic test results, and outcomes after treatment.

Methodology

• The research adopted a retrospective case series research method, where analysis was based on clinical records of 67 horses with hemoperitoneum from 1989 to 2004. The only records excluded were cases involving postoperative abdominal hemorrhage.
• The information acquired from the records included the horse’s history, signalment (age, breed, and gender), physical examination results, diagnostic test results, and short-term outcome after the onset of hemoperitoneum.

Horse Demographics and Key Findings

• The breed distribution in this study included Thoroughbreds, Arabians, Quarter Horses, Warmbloods, Appaloosas, and others – totaling 8 different breeds. The case study included 40 mares, 23 geldings, and 4 stallions, with a median age of 12 years.
• Abdominal discomfort was noted as the primary concern in almost 79% of these horses. Other clinical findings included shock (60%) and pale mucous membranes (60%).
• The median heart rate recorded was 76 beats/minute, respiratory rate was 30 breaths/minute, Hematocrit (Hct) was 31%, and total protein concentration was 5.8 g/dL.

Cause and Outcomes

• Trauma (25.4%), neoplasia/abnormal tissue growth (17.9%), uterine artery rupture (13.4%), mesenteric injury (11.9%), disseminated intravascular coagulopathy/blood clotting disorder (6.0%), and unknown causes (22.4%) were identified as causes of hemoperitoneum.
• The study revealed that 51% of the horses survived and were discharged from the hospital, 37% had to be euthanized due to severe conditions, and 12% died while under veterinary care.
• High respiratory rates and certain underlying causes were significantly associated with poor short-term outcomes.

Conclusions

• While it’s an infrequent occurrence, hemoperitoneum nonetheless represents a major cause of abdominal discomfort in horses – with trauma, neoplasia, and unidentified causes being the leading reasons.
• Understanding and identifying the underlying causes are vital due to the significant impact they have on the horse’s chance of recovery and overall outcome.