Two-dimensional- and M-mode echocardiographic measurements and indices of cardiac function in Spanish colts and fillies of different age.

The research investigates the echocardiographic measurements in Spanish fillies and colts of different ages and compares them with existing data from other equine breeds, aiming to determine if there are gender-based differences. A total of 70 healthy foals, divided into five age groups, were examined, and several echocardiographic parameters were recorded. The study found that most measurements increase with age (more significantly in the first 180 days of life), with some minor differences noticed between male and female foals, which might be related to variations in body weight.

Objectives and Approach

• The study aimed to establish echocardiographic values for different aged Spanish fillies and colts, contributing to veterinary medicine by providing essential physiological data.
• The researchers compared these specific measurements with those from different equine breeds to identify prominent differences or similarities.
• The research also explored the influence of gender on echocardiographic measurements, resulting in a more extensive, inclusive reference database.

Study Methodology

• 70 unsedated, healthy Spanish foals (39 females and 31 males) were utilized in the study, divided into five age categories.
• A variety of echocardiographic measurements were made, including left ventricular internal dimensions, left ventricular free wall thickness, interventricular septum thickness at systole and diastole, and mitral and tricuspid valve thickness.
• The study also calculated opening velocity of the mitral valve in early diastole (DE slope), pattern of transmitral flow (E/A ratio), echocardiographic mitral valve E point-septal separation (EPSS), and aorta diameters at different points.
• Left ventricle performance indices were assessed as part of the research.

Results and Insights

• Most echocardiographic parameters increased with age. This increase was more noticeable up to 180 days of age.
• No significant differences were found between groups regarding fraction shortening, ejection fraction, stroke volume index, fractional septum, and fractional wall thickening.
• The data did show some differences between fillies and colts in the studied age groups. These differences could be potentially attributed to variations in body weight.