Theriogenology Question of the Month.

This research talks about a clinical case, where a 6-year-old thoroughbred broodmare was brought to a veterinary hospital due to signs of colic three days after giving birth. After medical examinations and treatments, it was found that the colic was most likely caused by hemorrhage from the uterine artery, which was confirmed by ultrasonography revealing a large hematoma in the broad ligament of the left uterine horn.

Initial Presentation and Examination

• The 6-year-old thoroughbred broodmare, recently postpartum, was brought to the veterinary hospital due to signs of colic.
• No complications were reported during parturition and were comfortable until brought to the hospital.
• Physical examinations showed largely normal results, with pale pink mucous membranes being the only outlier.

Laboratory Findings

• The results from a Complete Blood Count (CBC) and venous blood gas analysis were within reference limits.
• Serum biochemical analysis showed an elevated creatine kinase activity and lactate concentration, indicating potential muscle damage and an increase in anaerobic metabolism respectively.
• The Packed Cell Volume (PCV) and total protein concentration were within reference limits, although total protein was at the low end.

Diagnosis and Treatment

• Transabdominal ultrasonography showed swirling peritoneal fluid with hyperechoic particles in the ventral portion of the abdomen, suggesting acute hemorrhage.
• The colic was therefore thought to most likely be due to hemorrhage from the uterine artery.
• The mare was treated with isotonic solution, aminocaproic acid, and flunixin meglumine, and was later given a transfusion after a decrease in PCV and total protein concentration.

Post-Treatment Condition and Follow-up Diagnosis

• Following the blood transfusion, the mare became febrile, with an increased neutrophil count and decreased lymphocyte count, suggesting an infection or inflammation.
• Treatment with antibiotics and more flunixin meglumine was initiated.
• Further examination via transrectal palpation and ultrasonography revealed a large hematoma in the broad ligament of the left uterine horn, confirming the diagnosis of uterine artery hemorrhage.