Renal disease associated with colic in horses.

This research investigates the occurrence of kidney dysfunction in horses as a result of gastrointestinal disorders and highlights various treatment options to combat this issue.

Overview

The research paper primarily focuses on exploring renal dysfunction in horses that might occur owing to gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Under certain circumstances, such as when a horse is dehydrated by 8-10% of its body weight, it can experience a condition known as prerenal azotemia which, if not managed in time, can lead to renal ischemia and result in kidney disease.

Key Findings

• One way the study suggests of identifying renal disease in horses is by examining their urine. A urine specific gravity lesser than 1.018 in dehydrated azotemic horses typically indicates the presence of kidney disease. On the other hand, a specific gravity reading above 1.025 often points towards normal kidney function.
• Additional markers of prerenal problems include a urine sodium (Na) level less than 20 mEq/L or a urine/plasma creatinine ratio equal to or above 20:1.
• The study also highlights the importance of avoiding nephrotoxic drugs, especially among horses that are septicemic or dehydrated, as these can exacerbate the condition.
• Certain diseases, like salmonellosis and proximal enteritis, are often associated with renal complications in horses, which suggests a correlation that may help in early detection and treatment.
• Renal disease when accompanied by Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC) gives a poor prognosis, indicating a more severe health condition.

Treatment Strategies

• Primary treatments aim to eliminate the underlying cause of the kidney failure and correct any metabolic abnormalities.
• Various interventions can be beneficial, such as the use of intravenous fluids, dopamine, prostaglandin inhibitors, water-soluble vitamins, and high-phosphorus diets. These are meant to help the horse regain its essential nutrition and hydrate the body.
• Providing horses with fresh and electrolyte-spiked water ‘ad libitum’ (as much as they desire) is also beneficial.
• Furthermore, the effectiveness of these treatments should not be judged purely on clinical impressions, but primarily on laboratory results to ensure evidence-based decision making.