Type-II renal tubular acidosis and ventricular tachycardia in a horse.

This research article presents a case study of a 14-year-old Arabian mare diagnosed with type-II renal tubular acidosis (RTA), large colon impaction, and ventricular tachycardia. The mare was treated with sodium bicarbonate, fluids, and other medications, improving its condition. However, the horse had several relapses and was found dead two months after its discharge.

Research Method and Findings

• The case study reports a 14-year-old Arabian mare that was admitted due to lethargy, anorexia, and low fecal output. Its overall health condition was assessed through a laboratory examination, physical check, and electrocardiographic inspection.
• The mare was diagnosed with type-II renal tubular acidosis (RTA), large colon impaction, and ventricular tachycardia. This diagnosis was based on the measurement of fractional excretion value for potassium (which was lower than normal) and sodium (that remained within the reference range). Contrary to this, type-I RTA typically shows high fractional excretion values for sodium, while potassium’s values are within the reference ranges.
• The treatment provided consisted of intravenous and oral sodium bicarbonate administration, intravenous fluid adminstration, and oral dosage of mineral oil and docusate sodium. This treatment led to the improvement of the acidosis and in turn, caused the resolution of the ventricular tachycardia.

Treatment Results and Post-Diagnosis Events

• By the time of its discharge, the mare was put under a continued regimen of oral intake of bicarbonate to manage the acidosis. However, over the next two months, it had several relapses which were associated with a lack of appetite and low intake of the supplemental bicarbonate.
• Unfortunately, the mare was found dead two months after its discharge. The study does not provide specific details about the exact cause of the death, leaving room for further investigation and study around the long-term prognosis of horses with similar conditions.