Intestinal carcinoid in a mare: an etiologic consideration for chronic colic in horses.

The research explores a case where intestinal carcinoid, also known as argentaffinoma, was determined as the cause for chronic colic in a mare.

Background

• The study centres around a mare which was exhibiting symptoms of chronic colic – a term referring to any form of gastrointestinal discomfort in horses.
• Prior to the study, the symptoms of colic observed had been temporarily relieved through impiric treatment. However, recent colic episodes didn’t subside in response to this treatment.

Clinical Examination

• The clinical signs and results from the physical examination hinted towards a strangulating obstruction of the small intestine. A strangulating obstruction is a severe condition where a part of the intestine is cut off from the blood supply, often causing necrosis and death of that segment.

Exploratory Celiotomy

• To confirm the clinical suspicion, an exploratory celiotomy was performed. Celiotomy is a surgical incision into the abdominal cavity, often performed for diagnostic purpose.
• The surgery revealed internal herniation alongside simultaneous volvulus of the jejunum and an accompanying carcinoid. An internal hernia is a type of hernia where an organ protrudes through an opening within the body; and volvulus refers to the twisting of a part of the digestive tract, causing obstruction and possible cutting off of the blood supply. A carcinoid, in this context, is a slow-growing type of neuroendocrine tumour often located in the gastrointestinal tract.

Conclusion

• The findings from the clinical examination and exploratory celiotomy lead to the conclusion that intestinal carcinoid or argentaffinoma should be considered a possible cause for chronic colic in horses.