Prepubic Tendon Rupture and Uterine Herniation in a Late-Term Kurdish Mare: A Case Report.

Overview

• This study reports a rare, life-threatening condition called prepubic tendon rupture (PPTR) in a late-term pregnant Kurdish mare.
• The case describes clinical signs, diagnostic findings, and the unfortunate outcome, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and monitoring.

Background

• Prepubic tendon rupture (PPTR) is a rare complication occurring near the end of pregnancy in mares.
• It involves failure of the abdominal wall structures, particularly the tendon that supports the abdomen at the pubic region.
• This leads to severe ventral (belly-side) swelling, fluid accumulation (edema), and displacement of the udder.
• The condition poses a poor prognosis for both the mare and her unborn foal due to the risk of systemic deterioration and mechanical failure of the abdominal wall.

Case Details

• The subject was a 14-year-old Kurdish mare, with previous pregnancies, at approximately 310 days of gestation (near full term).
• Clinical signs included:
  • Acute ventral abdominal distension.
  • Reluctance to move or walk.
  • Udder displaced forward or upward (cranially).
  • Tachycardia (increased heart rate) and pale mucous membranes indicating possible circulatory compromise.
  • Grade 3/4 ventral edema, indicating severe fluid accumulation under the skin.
• Laboratory tests showed:
  • Leucocytosis – elevated white blood cell count suggesting inflammation or infection.
  • Haemoconcentration – increased concentration of blood cells due to fluid shifts.
• Transabdominal ultrasound examination revealed:
  • A live, viable foetus.
  • Severe thinning of the caudoventral abdominal wall, consistent with complete rupture of the prepubic tendon.
• Differential diagnoses were ruled out, including:
  • Hydrops (excessive fluid accumulation in fetal membranes).
  • Twin pregnancy, which may also cause abdominal distension.

Management and Outcome

• Due to the rapid worsening of the mare’s systemic condition and the severe abdominal wall failure, conservative management (rest and supportive care) was not possible.
• Surgical repair was also contraindicated because of the mare’s unstable health and technical challenges.
• Consequently, euthanasia was performed humanely to prevent further suffering.

Significance and Recommendations

• This is the first documented case of prepubic tendon rupture in a Kurdish mare, suggesting that breed does not provide immunity to this condition.
• The report emphasizes the critical need for early recognition of PPTR through careful clinical examination and ultrasonographic monitoring during late pregnancy.
• Early diagnosis may improve the chances of successful intervention, either medically or surgically, potentially saving the mare and foal.
• Veterinarians should include PPTR as a differential diagnosis when late-term pregnant mares present with ventral swelling and systemic signs.