Retrospective evaluation of blood culture isolates and sepsis survival rate in foals in the Czech Republic: 50 cases (2011-2013).

This research investigates the types of pathogens causing sepsis in young horses in the Czech Republic, and the factors affecting their survival. The study found that there were high rates of sepsis with a significant number caused by Gram-negative bacteria, and that survival rates were generally low.

About The Study

• The study was conducted retrospectively, meaning it looked back at past data.
• The data were collected between 2011 and 2013 at a University veterinary teaching hospital in the Czech Republic, using fifty compromised foals as subjects.
• The foals’ blood was tested aseptically, meaning in a sterile environment to prevent contamination.
• Foals were categorized as septic if the blood culture was positive for bacteria, or if their sepsis score was 11 or higher. Sepsis score is a measurement used by vets to predict the likelihood of a patient having sepsis, based on certain clinical signs and lab results.

Results of the Study

• The blood cultures were positive in 44% of the foals, indicating a high level of sepsis.
• Of these positive cultures, 27.3% comprised only Gram-positive bacteria and 54.5% only Gram-negative bacteria, while 18.2% showed both types. This suggests the predominance of Gram-negative bacteria in sepsis cases.
• Thirty-six foals were categorized as septic based on positive blood culture or a sepsis score ≥11.
• The research revealed a significant association between low levels of immunoglobulin G (IgG), a type of antibody, and negative survival outcomes in foals. There were significantly more foals with low levels of IgG who did not survive, compared with those who had normal IgG levels.
• A significant difference was also reported between foals with low IgG levels and positive blood cultures compared to those with negative cultures.
• Of the 50 foals in the study, only 26 were discharged from the hospital, indicating a high mortality rate associated with sepsis.
• Moreover, survival rates were significantly lower in foals diagnosed with sepsis than those without sepsis.
• Interestingly, the study reported no significant difference in survival between foals infected by Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
• There was also no difference in survival between those who received antimicrobials before admission and those who did not.

Conclusions of the Study

• The study concluded that while Gram-positive bacteria are becoming increasingly prevalent in blood cultures, Gram-negative bacteria still predominate.
• The researchers confirmed the high mortality rate for foals suffering from sepsis. Hence, providing a need for more effective diagnosis and treatment options.