Prognostic value of endometrial biopsy in the mare: a retrospective analysis.

This research article explores the predictive value of endometrial biopsy in determining fertility rates in mares. Using retrospective analysis, the study found that the severity of changes revealed in an endometrial biopsy correlated with a mare’s fecundity, alongside other considerations such as historical, clinical, and diagnostic assessments.

Objective of the Research

• The main objective of this study was to retrospectively analyze the utility of endometrial biopsy in predicting fertility in mares. The research was conducted on biopsy specimens taken from 79 mares with previous infertility issues.

Methodology of the Research

• The endometrial biopsy specimens were categorised into three distinct prognostic categories, depending on the severity of the identified histologic changes.
• Category I comprised mares with minor endometrial lesions, Category II included mares with more severe changes, while Category III was made up of mares with the most extreme endometrial changes.

Findings of the Research

• Among mares in Category I, the foaling rate was found to be 78%.
• Mares in Category II were found to have a foaling rate of 55%.
• For mares in the Category III, the foaling rate dropped significantly to 35%.
• Pregnancy loss rates also increased with the severity of histologic change: Category I had a 9.7% loss rate, Category II had a 23.8% loss, and Category III had a significant 44.4% loss rate.

Conclusion of the Research

• The study concluded that endometrial biopsy can play a critical role in the prediction of a mare’s fecundity when combined with evaluation of historical data, clinical examination, and relevant diagnostic laboratory tests.
• However, the study also emphasized that the utility of the biopsy rests heavily on the quality of the biopsy specimen and the examiner’s capacity to interpret the findings effectively, indicating a need for individual expertise and training.