Prevalence of Radiographic Signs of Osteoarthritis in Lusitano Purebred Horses

The difference in radiographic findings in the distal limbs of working Lipizzan horses, used for dressage or driving

Introduction

Lameness originating from the distal limb is common in sport horses and can vary depending on the dynamics of movement and the surface, with differences in shoeing exacerbating this variability. Driving horses work primarily on hard surfaces (pavement), whereas dressage horses work primarily on soft surfaces (riding arenas with sand). Driving horses are traditionally shod with small fixed studs made of hard metal, which are attached to the horseshoe at 4 points, while dressage horses are shod with a simple horseshoe. We investigated the hypothesis that there is a difference in the pathological radiographic findings of the distal limbs between driving and dressage horses. The variability in the stable management and training program was minimized by including horses from the same farm.

Methods

Twenty horses in a driving training program and 20 horses in a dressage program were included in the study. Radiographs of the both front feet were obtained and quantitatively evaluated for radiographic changes by three surgery/diagnostic imaging specialists. Interrater reliability was measured, and multivariate analysis was performed to compare differences in pathological radiographic findings of the distal limbs between the two groups.

Results

Kendal's concordance coefficient indicated an agreement among raters (Kw ≠ 0) for all observations. Radiographic signs of degenerative joint disease of the distal interphalangeal joint were more common in the group of driving horses compared to dressage horses.

Conclusion

Our hypothesis was confirmed, as there were significant pathological differences between groups in distal articular margin of middle phalanx, joint space narrowing, and irregular joint surface of the middle phalanx.

Electrocardiographic Reference Values in Clinically Healthy Lusitano Horses

The Lusitano horse is gaining popularity in the equestrian world, and as a result, the significance of applied sports medicine for this breed is growing. As cardiology plays a crucial role in this field, numerous studies have been conducted to establish electrocardiographic reference values in various breeds to ensure a more accurate evaluation. However, studies regarding healthy Lusitano horses are lacking. So, this study aimed to establish electrocardiographic reference values for Lusitano horses, utilizing a sample of 82 clinically healthy animals. The evaluation involved lead II and base-apex lead measurements, with a median heart rate of 39 beats per minute being recorded. The P wave demonstrated a predominantly bifid configuration, while the QRS complex exhibited various forms. The most common QRS configurations were QR and R in lead II, and RS in the base-apex lead. Additionally, most T waves displayed a biphasic shape in both methods. Furthermore, statistically significant differences were noted based on age and gender. Some of the electrocardiographic values obtained differed from those previously published for other breeds. Given the relevance of electrocardiogram in cardiovascular evaluation, these findings bring valuable insights regarding the specific parameters for Lusitano horse and emphasize the importance of obtaining breed-specific electrocardiographic reference values.

Chronic progressive lymphoedema in a Friesian horse: clinical aspects and diagnostic approach - case report

ABSTRACT Chronic Progressive Lymphoedema (CPL) is a disabling disease of draft horses that affects lymphatic system function typically in the distal limbs. Deformities of distal limbs, especially of the pastern, with fibrosis and skin nodular lesions are consequences of disease progression. A 15-year-old Friesian stallion presented for evaluation with history of forelimb enlargement and nodule formations distal to the carpus for four years. Simple radiographs showed soft tissue nodular lesions and venous contrasted radiography showed intense enlargement of II common digital palmar vein of both forelimbs. Tissue culture tests revealed Streptococcus equi and Proteus mirabilis isolation and skin scraping test identified Chorioptes bovis mites. Histological examination revealed perivasculitis and lymph vessels distention. History, clinical and histological findings, and complementary exams suggested CPL diagnosis. We were unable to find previously published cases describing this disease in Brazil, where the increasing number of draft horses requires attention to this problem. The correct and early diagnosis substantially delays disease progression. Therefore, we highlight the need for nationwide propagation of these data to ensure better diagnosis and early treatment of future CPL cases.