Splenic hematoma and hemoperitoneum in a Thoroughbred racehorse after racing.

This research article discusses the case of a Thoroughbred filly who experienced a rare occurrence of splenic hematoma and hemoperitoneum immediately after a race, highlighting this as a possible differential for colicky behavior in racehorses.

Case Presentation

• The article details a case involving a three-year-old Thoroughbred filly that was brought to a hospital immediately after racing. The filly was quiet, alert, responsive with a heart rate of 76 beats per minute, pale mucous membranes, with all other physical parameters being normal except for absent gut sounds (borborygmi).
• An ultrasound of the abdomen revealed free fluid in the abdomen (echogenic free abdominal fluid) and a hematoma (collection of blood) in the spleen.
• Abdominocentesis (procedure to remove fluid from the abdomen) showed bloody fluid with a Packed Cell Volume (PCV) of 35%. A PCV of this level typically indicates severe anemia or blood loss.

Treatment and Result

• The filly was treated with isotonic crystalloid fluids, aminocaproic acid to control bleeding, potassium penicillin and gentamicin for possible infection, and omeprazole for stomach protection. The lowest PCV was observed 36 hours after presentation.
• The filly was stabilized with medical treatment and was discharged for further recovery at a farm.

Conclusions

• There are no previously published reports detailing hemoperitoneum (blood in the abdominal cavity) of splenic origin in Thoroughbreds immediately after racing. Though such instances are rare and are mostly linked with acute trauma, tumors, childbirth, or postoperative complications, this case raises awareness of the possibility in a horse showing colic-like symptoms immediately after racing.