Hydroallantois in a mare associated with schistosomus and unilateral ovarian agenesis in the fetus.

The research investigates a case of hydroallantois in a pregnant mare and its subsequent effects, including the birth of a non-viable foetus with congenital abnormalities such as schistosomus and unilateral ovarian agenesis.

Introduction

• The paper begins by explaining that hydropsical conditions in domestic animals, which involve abnormal fluid accumulation, are often characterised by varied and complex pathophysiologies. Though not fully understood, their occurrence may be linked to changes in chorioallantoic membranes, occurrence of placentitis, or different fetal abnormalities.
• Hydrops is a critical medical condition that can lead to serious complications for the carrying mare. Thus, early diagnosis and treatment have vital implications for the mare’s prognosis.

Fetus Examination and Treatment

• The case study focuses on a 9-year-old pregnant Quarter mare at 271 days of gestation suffering from hydroallantois which led to dystocia, a painful or difficult labor, resulting in a non-viable foal with multiple congenital abnormalities.
• Given the bleak survival prediction for the fetus, a transcervical gradual fluid drainage and pregnancy termination were performed to ensure the mare’s wellbeing.

Necropsy Findings

• Post delivery, the malformed foetus was humanely euthanized and a necropsy was conducted. The results revealed the foal with palatoschisis, a cleft palate condition, a wry nose, prognathism, characterized by an extended mandible or jaw, and unilateral ovarian agenesis, a condition in which a female missing one or both ovaries.

Conclusion

• This case study emphasizes the importance of timely intervention in managing hydroallantois in mares, which could significantly affect their health and the viability of the fetus they carry.
• The findings offer more insight towards understanding horses’ clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of hydroallantois, adding to the larger body of knowledge and potential future studies.