Results of concurrent bacteriological and cytological examinations of the endometrium of mares in routine stud farm practice 1978-1981.

This research investigates the practical application of endometrial swab and smear tests in identifying acute endometritis in mares (female horses) in a stud farm. It shows that the use of cytological examinations alongside bacteriological ones increases the accuracy of the results.

Concurrent Bacteriological and Cytological Examinations

• The study centres on the results of 4024 concurrent endometrial swab and smear tests performed on various types of mares, including maiden (virgin), barren, and post-parturient (after childbirth).
• The tests were carried out during the early oestrus phase, which is the fertile period of a mare’s reproductive cycle, prior to coitus (sexual intercourse).

Practical Value in Routine Stud Farm Practice

• The primary goal of these tests was to identify the presence of acute endometritis, an inflammation of the endometrium (the inner lining of the uterus) in mares.
• Endometritis can have serious effects on the fertility of mares. Therefore, its early detection and treatment are crucial in a stud farm setting where breeding is a primary activity.
• The research suggests that these tests have practical value in routine stud farm practice, assisting in the timely diagnosis and management of reproductive health issues in mares.

Dual Diagnostic Approach Increase Accuracy

• The study highlights that cytological examinations – the study of cells under a microscope – provide a more direct diagnostic test for acute endometritis.
• When used in conjunction with bacteriological findings, which are the results of testing for infectious bacteria, the accuracy of diagnosis is increased.
• This dual test approach consequently allows for a more comprehensive and accurate interpretation of the health status of the mare’s uterus, and by extension, her general reproductive health and potential for successful breeding.