Prevalence and factors associated with development of laminitis in horses with duodenitis/proximal jejunitis: 33 cases (1985-1991).

This study analyzed the medical records of horses with duodenitis/proximal jejunitis (DPJ) to understand the prevalence and factors triggering laminitis, a hoof condition. It found that laminitis was more likely to occur in heavier horses and those with hemorrhagic reflux, while heparin treatment showed potential preventative benefits.

Methodology and Participants

• The research involved analyzing medical records of 116 horses that were admitted to the Texas Veterinary Medical Center between January 1, 1984 and December 31, 1991.
• Each of the horses suffered from duodenitis/proximal jejunitis (DPJ), an inflammatory condition affecting the upper part of a horse’s small intestine.

Findings of the Study: Prevalence of Laminitis

• Researchers found that approximately 28.4% (or 33 out of 116) of these horses developed laminitis, a painful condition of the horse’s hoof.
• The prevalence of laminitis in DPJ-affected horses remained consistent over the years under review.

Risk Factors of Developing Laminitis

• Upon reviewing horse anamnesis, physical examination, clinicopathologic data, and initial treatment, the study found an increasing trend of laminitis prevalence with rising horse weight.
• Horses weighing 550 kg or more were about twice as likely to develop laminitis than horses weighing less than 550 kg.
• Furthermore, horses which showcased hemorrhagic reflux, a gastrointestinal issue, at the time of admission were nearly twice as likely to develop laminitis than those without these symptoms.

Impact of Treatments on Laminitis Development

• The research indicated that pre-admission or in-clinic treatments had no significant impact on the development of laminitis, with one exception: heparin, which was used as a preventative intervention.
• Of the 33 horses that developed laminitis, 2 had it at the time of admission and were not treated with heparin, thus excluded from this part of the analysis.
• Interestingly, none of the horses that received heparin developed laminitis, showing a significant difference compared to horses that were not administered heparin.