High concentrations of myeloperoxidase in the equine uterus as an indicator of endometritis.

The research looks at the presence of an enzyme called myeloperoxidase (MPO) in the uterus of mares to determine its relationship with an inflammation of the uterus known as endometritis.

Objectives of the Study

• The goals of this study were primarily to ascertain the prevalence and concentration of myeloperoxidase (MPO) in the uterus of mares and establish its link with neutrophils, a type of white blood cell.
• Additionally, the study sought to correlate MPO levels with other clinical indicators of endometritis.

Procedure and Methodology

• To start with, 51 mares were examined for the existence of intraluminal fluid and excessive endometrial edema, which are common symptoms of endometritis.
• Scientific samples (small volume lavage and cytology samples) were collected from these mares.
• Around 69 cycles of the animals were scrutinized, during which the uterine flushes’ supernatant was examined using a particular equine MPO ELISA assay to quantify MPO concentration.
• These cytology samples provided crucial data for the diagnosis of endometritis.

Results and Key Findings

• The research found that MPO was present in the uterus of all estrus mares, albeit in highly variable concentrations.
• It was noted that MPO concentrations were considerably higher in samples that had positive cytologies and in instances where intraluminal fluid was present.
• Interestingly, a few samples that showed negative cytologies also displayed elevated levels of MPO. However, it was never observed that samples with high MPO corresponded with negative cytologies.
• Results indicated that cycles exhibiting hyperedema were not linked to increased MPO concentration, intraluminal fluid, or positive cytology. This suggests that hyperedema is not reliable as a diagnostic tool for endometritis.

Implications of the Research

• This study establishes a connection between the concentration of MPO and endometritis, and adds to existing knowledge about diagnostics related to equine health.
• The findings could potentially lead to more accurate endometritis diagnosis in mares, which could improve breeding success rates and overall equine health.