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Durando MM, Slack J, Birks E, Belcher C, Kohn C. Premature depolarisations in horses competing in United States Eventing Association and Fédération Equestre Internationale-sanctioned 3-day events. Equine Vet J 2024; 56:59-68. [PMID: 37248851 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Injuries and sudden death during the cross-country (XC) phase of eventing have raised interest in the frequency and types of cardiac arrhythmias occurring in these equine athletes. OBJECTIVES To characterise the frequency and types of rhythm disturbances and examine possible risk factors for premature depolarisations (PDs) occurring during the XC phase of United States Eventing Association (USEA) and Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI)-sanctioned events. STUDY DESIGN Prospective, cross-sectional study. METHODS Continuous electrocardiographic (ECG) recordings were obtained from horses prior to, during and immediately following the XC competition. Physiological rhythms pre-XC were included in the arrhythmia group for analysis. The frequency of PDs was calculated for all horses, as well as by division. PDs were categorised by complexity (singles, couplets, triplets, complex) and variably grouped for statistical analysis. Multiple logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for the presence of specific cardiac arrhythmia groupings during XC. RESULTS PDs were identified in 42/75 horses (56% [45, 67]) during XC. Horses competing in the upper divisions of eventing had higher odds for having any PD during XC compared to the lower divisions (OR = 17.5 [4.3, 72.01], p = 0.006). The amount of time the heart rate (HR) was greater than 199 beats per minute (BPM) was associated with more complex arrhythmias (triplets, salvos and tachyarrhythmias) (OR = 1.01 [1.0, 1.02], p = 0.005). An arrhythmia at rest (physiological or PD) was associated with arrhythmia in the early recovery period (OR = 3.5 [1.1, 10.8], p = 0.03). MAIN LIMITATIONS Convenience sampling and technical challenges of continuous ECG recordings under competition settings limited the number of enrollments. CONCLUSIONS PDs were seen in a high percentage of horses during the XC competition. Upper levels and time the HR was greater than 199 BPM were related to PD presence and complexity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary M Durando
- Equine Sports Medicine Consultants, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Joann Slack
- New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Eric Birks
- Equine Sports Medicine Consultants, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Carolyn Belcher
- Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Coastal Resources Division, Brunswick, Georgia, USA
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Kelly-Bosma M, Henning J, Haworth M, Ploeg R, Woolford L, Neef A, Das S, Allavena R. A Multicentre Epidemiologic Study of Sudden and Unexpected Death in Adult Cats and Dogs in Australia. Vet Sci 2023; 10:582. [PMID: 37756104 PMCID: PMC10535394 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10090582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Sudden and unexpected death (SUD) is a common reason for animals to undergo post-mortem examination. There is limited literature examining the causes of SUD in cats and dogs, and no research specific to Australia. The purpose of this study was to investigate the epidemiology and pathology of SUD in cats and dogs in a multicentric study across Australia. Retrospective post-mortem reports of SUD in cats and dogs were obtained from four veterinary schools in Australia distributed across four states. The frequency of SUD between institutes ranged from 2.1% to 6.5%. Dogs composed the majority of the study population (76%), and males outnumbered females, particularly in the feline subpopulation. After necropsy, 37% of SUD remained cause unknown, the largest category in both cats and dogs. When cause was identified, cardiovascular disease was most common in both species, followed by gastrointestinal disease in dogs, and trauma in cats. In dogs, multinomial logistic regression identified age as a risk factor significantly associated with the four largest categories of SUD. This study identified causes of SUD in Australian cats and dogs, including novel causes not previously reported. Further, this study revealed a higher rate of unsolved SUD in Australia than can be found in the literature from other countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirrim Kelly-Bosma
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia (R.A.)
| | - Joerg Henning
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia (R.A.)
| | - Mark Haworth
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia (R.A.)
| | - Richard Ploeg
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC 3030, Australia
| | - Lucy Woolford
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, The University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
| | - Alison Neef
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2650, Australia
| | - Shubhagata Das
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2650, Australia
| | - Rachel Allavena
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia (R.A.)
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Lo Feudo CM, Stucchi L, Stancari G, Conturba B, Bozzola C, Zucca E, Ferrucci F. Associations between Medical Disorders and Racing Outcomes in Poorly Performing Standardbred Trotter Racehorses: A Retrospective Study. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2569. [PMID: 37627359 PMCID: PMC10451774 DOI: 10.3390/ani13162569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Poor performance in racehorses is commonly associated with subclinical diseases. This study aims to evaluate the associations between medical disorders and racing results in Standardbred trotters. The clinical records of 248 poorly performing Standardbreds were retrospectively reviewed, and their racing results were extracted from an online database, concerning the periods 3 months before and 6 months after hospitalization and the entire lifetime. Generalized linear models were used to evaluate the effects of different disorders on racing outcomes. Airway neutrophilia was associated with limiting lifetime starts and wins pre- and post-hospitalization, while mastocytosis was associated with less wins in the post-hospitalization period. Therefore, lower airway inflammation showed both short- and long-term impacts on racing performance. Severe upper airway obstructions and gastric ulcers showed associations with less placings in the post-discharge period but no long-term influence on performance. The significance of exertional rhabdomyolysis was indeterminable, yet interference with the number of starts in the post-discharge period was reported and associated with lower total career earnings. Exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage and cardiac arrhythmias were not associated with worse racing outcomes: therefore, their role in poor performance remains unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Maria Lo Feudo
- Equine Sports Medicine Laboratory “Franco Tradati”, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (C.M.L.F.)
| | - Luca Stucchi
- Equine Sports Medicine Laboratory “Franco Tradati”, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (C.M.L.F.)
| | - Giovanni Stancari
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Bianca Conturba
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Chiara Bozzola
- Equine Sports Medicine Laboratory “Franco Tradati”, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (C.M.L.F.)
| | - Enrica Zucca
- Equine Sports Medicine Laboratory “Franco Tradati”, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (C.M.L.F.)
| | - Francesco Ferrucci
- Equine Sports Medicine Laboratory “Franco Tradati”, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Milano, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (C.M.L.F.)
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Electrocardiographic and Echocardiographic Parameters in Pega Breed Donkeys: A Descriptive Study. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13050861. [PMID: 36899718 PMCID: PMC10000045 DOI: 10.3390/ani13050861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical, electrocardiographic and echocardiographic parameters in Pega donkeys are scarce in the literature; hence, this study was performed to describe the echocardiographic and electrocardiographic measurements in Pega breed donkeys. The objectives of this study were to describe and illustrate the clinical, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic parameters in Pega donkeys used for reproduction. Fifty Pega breed donkeys were evaluated, with an average age of 3.4 years and with 20 males and 30 females. In each animal, the electrocardiographic examination at rest was performed using the TEB® computerized system, and the echocardiographic examination was performed using an ultrasound device with a Doppler function multifrequency sectorial transducer in 2D mode (Sonosite® M turbo). Standardizing the electrocardiographic and echocardiographic parameters for the Pega breed donkey can contribute to future assessments regarding possible changes that excessive effort can promote in these parameters to a management engrossed on animal welfare.
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McCrae P, Spong H, Golestani N, Mahnam A, Bashura Y, Pearson W. Validation of an Equine Smart Textile System for Heart Rate Variability: A Preliminary Study. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13030512. [PMID: 36766401 PMCID: PMC9913118 DOI: 10.3390/ani13030512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Electrocardiograms (ECGs), and associated heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) measurements, are essential in assessing equine cardiovascular health and fitness. Smart textiles have gained popularity, but limited validation work has been conducted. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compare HR and HRV data obtained using a smart textile system (Myant) to the gold-standard telemetric device (Televet). Simultaneous ECGs were obtained using both systems in seven horses at rest and during a submaximal exercise test. Bland-Altman tests were used to assess agreement between the two devices. Strong to perfect correlations without significant differences between the two devices were observed for all metrics assessed. During exercise, mean biases of 0.31 bpm (95% limits of agreement: -1.99 to 2.61) for HR, 1.43 ms (-11.48 to 14.33) for standard deviation of R-R intervals (SDRR), and 0.04 (-2.30 to 2.38) for the HRV triangular index (TI) were observed. A very strong correlation was found between the two devices for HR (r = 0.9993, p < 0.0001) and for HRV parameters (SDRR r = 0.8765, p < 0.0001; TI r = 0.8712, p < 0.0001). This study demonstrates that a smart textile system is reliable for assessment of HR and HRV of horses at rest and during submaximal exercise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Persephone McCrae
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Hannah Spong
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Nadia Golestani
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Amin Mahnam
- Department of Research and Development, Myant Inc., Toronto, ON M9W 1B6, Canada
| | - Yana Bashura
- Department of Research and Development, Myant Inc., Toronto, ON M9W 1B6, Canada
| | - Wendy Pearson
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
- Correspondence:
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Decloedt A. Cardiac arrhythmias as a potential sign of systemic disease: Which laboratory tests are useful? EQUINE VET EDUC 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.13547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Decloedt
- Equine CardioTeam Department of Large Animal Internal Medicine Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Ghent University Merelbeke Belgium
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7
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Nath L, Stent A, Elliott A, La Gerche A, Franklin S. Risk Factors for Exercise-Associated Sudden Cardiac Death in Thoroughbred Racehorses. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12101297. [PMID: 35625143 PMCID: PMC9137751 DOI: 10.3390/ani12101297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiac arrhythmias resulting in sudden cardiac death (SCD) are an important cause of racehorse fatalities. The objective of this study was to determine risk factors for SCD in Thoroughbreds by evaluating a sample with a policy of mandatory post-mortem following racing or training fatalities. Risk factors were compared between case horses with SCD (n = 57) and control horses with other fatal injury (OFI, n = 188) by univariable and multivariable logistic regression. Survival in years for horses with SCD was compared to OFI using the Kaplan−Meier method with log rank test. The following variables were most important in the multiple logistic model: Horses with SCD were more likely to die during training than during racing, SCD (42/57, 74%) vs. OFI (82/188, 44%; odds ratio [OR], 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.5, 1.2−5.4; p = 0.01), had fewer lifetime starts, median (interquartile range [IQR]), SCD (3.0 [0.0−9.0]) vs. OFI (9.0 [0.0−22.8]; OR, 95% CI, 0.96, 0.9−1.0; p = 0.02 and were less likely to be entire (uncastrated) males, SCD 9/57 (16%) vs. OFI (46/188, 25%; OR, 95% CI, 0.47, 0.1−0.9; p = 0.03). Survival in years (median (IQR)) for horses with SCD was 3.6 (3.1−4.4), which was shorter than OFI (4.5 [3.1−6.0], hazard ratio, 95%CI, 1.6,1.2−2.3; p < 0.001). SCD occurs more commonly in training than racing, which suggests exercise intensity is less important in precipitating this fatality. In this study, SCD occurred early in the careers of affected horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Nath
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy 5371, Australia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Andrew Stent
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee 3030, Australia;
| | - Adrian Elliott
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia;
| | - Andre La Gerche
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne 3004, Australia;
| | - Samantha Franklin
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy 5371, Australia;
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Hellings IR, Skjerve E, Karlstam E, Valheim M, Ihler CF, Fintl C. Racing-associated fatalities in Norwegian and Swedish harness racehorses: Incidence rates, risk factors, and principal postmortem findings. J Vet Intern Med 2022; 36:778-786. [PMID: 35060194 PMCID: PMC8965266 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.16364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are no reports on the number of fatalities or causes of death in the Norwegian and Swedish harness racehorses. OBJECTIVES The incidence rates (IRs), risk factors, and postmortem findings in horses that died or were euthanized associated with racing between 2014 and 2019 were investigated. ANIMALS Thirty-eight Standardbreds and 10 Norwegian-Swedish Coldblooded Trotters died or were euthanized associated with racing. A total of 816 085 race-starts were recorded. METHODS Incidence rates were calculated for both countries and horse breeds. Risk factors for sudden death were identified using a case-control logistic model. Postmortem examinations were performed in 43 horses. RESULTS The overall fatality IR was 0.059/1000 race-starts. Traumatic injuries accounted for 14.5%, while sudden death for 85.5% of fatalities. Only minor differences between countries and breeds were recorded. The number of starts within the last 30 days increased the risk of sudden death (5 starts odds ratio (OR) 228.80, confidence interval (CI) 10.9-4793). An opposite non-linear effect was observed in number of starts the last 180 days (>10 starts OR 0.12, CI 0.02-0.68). Seven horses were euthanized because of catastrophic injury. Acute circulatory collapse because of suspected cardiac or pulmonary failure or both was recorded in 30 horses, while major hemorrhage after vessel rupture was the primary cause of death in 10 cases. One horse collapsed and died but was not submitted for autopsy. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Comparatively low rates of catastrophic orthopedic fatalities were reported, while causes and IR of sudden death were similar to previous studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingunn Risnes Hellings
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and BiosciencesNorwegian University of Life SciencesÅsNorway
| | - Eystein Skjerve
- Department of Production Animal Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and BiosciencesNorwegian University of Life SciencesÅsNorway
| | - Erika Karlstam
- Department of Pathology and Wildlife DiseasesThe Swedish National Veterinary InstituteUppsalaSweden
| | - Mette Valheim
- Department of Pathology and High‐Risk PathogensThe Norwegian Veterinary InstituteÅsNorway
| | - Carl Fredrik Ihler
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and BiosciencesNorwegian University of Life SciencesÅsNorway
| | - Constanze Fintl
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and BiosciencesNorwegian University of Life SciencesÅsNorway
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9
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An Exploratory Study on Vectorcardiographic Identification of the Site of Origin of Focally Induced Premature Depolarizations in Horses, Part II: The Ventricles. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12050550. [PMID: 35268119 PMCID: PMC8908816 DOI: 10.3390/ani12050550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In human cardiology, the anatomical origin of ventricular premature depolarizations (VPDs) is determined by the characteristics of a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG). Former studies in horses had contradictory results regarding the diagnostic value of the 12-lead ECG and vectorcardiography (VCG), which results were attributed to the different cardiac conduction system in this species. The objective of this study was to determine if the anatomical origin of pacing-induced VPDs could be differentiated in horses based upon VCG characteristics. A 12-lead ECG was recorded in seven horses under general anesthesia while right and left ventricular endomyocardial pacing was performed (800−1000 ms cycle length) at the apex, mid and high septum and mid and high free wall, and at the right ventricular outflow tract. Catheter positioning was guided by 3D electro-anatomical mapping and echocardiography. A median complex, obtained from four consecutive complexes, was calculated for each pacing location and sinus rhythm. The VCG was calculated from the 12-lead ECG-derived median complexes using custom-made algorithms and was used to determine the initial and maximum electrical axes of the QRS complex. An ANOVA for spherical data was used to test if VCGs between each paced location and between pacing and sinus rhythm were significantly (p < 0.05) different. The model included the radius, azimuth and elevation of each electrical axis. Pacing induced significantly different initial and maximum electrical axes between different locations and between pacing and sinus rhythm. The current results suggest that VCG is a useful technique to identify the anatomical origin of ventricular ectopy in horses.
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Jago R, Blissitt K. How to record a good quality ECG in horses. IN PRACTICE 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/inpr.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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Hövener J, Pokar J, Merle R, Gehlen H. Association between Cardiac Auscultation and Echocardiographic Findings in Warmblood Horses. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:3463. [PMID: 34944240 PMCID: PMC8698104 DOI: 10.3390/ani11123463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart murmurs are detected frequently when auscultating horses and certain murmurs can usually be linked to specific valvular regurgitations. Limited information exists about the accuracy of these broad rules in warmblood horses and the influence of grade of the regurgitation and dimensional changes on murmur intensity. This study aims to clarify the accuracy of cardiac auscultation in warmblood horses and the influence of the grade of regurgitation and dimensional changes on the loudness of the murmur. In this retrospective study, 822 warmblood horses presented for cardiac examination in a large equine referral center in northern Germany underwent a thorough cardiac auscultation. In total, 653 of these revealed one or more heart murmurs. Most common auscultatory findings were left-sided systolic murmurs (68%) or left-sided diastolic murmurs (15%). On 635 of these horses, an echocardiographic examination was performed, revealing regurgitations of the mitral valve as the most common valvular regurgitation (77%) followed by regurgitations of the aortic valve (23%). Thirty-one percent of horses that underwent echocardiographic examination displayed dimensional changes of one or more compartments of the heart, with the left atrium being most affected (21%), followed by the left ventricle (13%). The main goal of this study was to link certain auscultatory findings with results of the echocardiographic examinations, trying to determine whether auscultation and echocardiography agreed on the valve affected, as well as to find out if loudness of the murmur coincided with grade of regurgitation and presence of dimensional changes. Agreement between auscultation and cardiac ultrasound was substantial (Kappa 0.74) if one or more murmurs and regurgitations were present and almost perfect (Kappa 0.94) if only one murmur and one regurgitation were found. Auscultation was particularly well suited for detection of left-sided systolic and diastolic murmurs, with 87% of left-sided systolic murmurs being caused by a mitral valve regurgitation and 81% of left-sided diastolic murmurs originating from an aortic valve regurgitation. We found a fair agreement between the grade of regurgitation and the respective murmur. Association was particularly good between mild regurgitations and low-grade murmurs, while differentiation between moderate to severe regurgitation based upon the loudness of the murmur was less reliable. Dimensional changes were usually linked to more severe regurgitations and higher-grade murmurs. However, a direct correlation between murmur intensity and the presence or severity of dimensional changes, independent of the grade of valvular regurgitation, could not be established in this cohort of horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob Hövener
- Equine Clinic Bargteheide, 22941 Bargteheide, Germany;
- Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany;
- Equine Clinic, Veterinary Department, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Julie Pokar
- Equine Clinic Bargteheide, 22941 Bargteheide, Germany;
| | - Roswitha Merle
- Institute for Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Heidrun Gehlen
- Equine Clinic, Veterinary Department, Freie Universitaet Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany
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Premont A, Balthes S, Marr CM, Jeevaratnam K. Fundamentals of arrhythmogenic mechanisms and treatment strategies for equine atrial fibrillation. Equine Vet J 2021; 54:262-282. [PMID: 34564902 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common pathological arrhythmia in horses. Although it is not usually a life-threatening condition on its own, it can cause poor performance and make the horse unsafe to ride. It is a complex multifactorial disease influenced by both genetic and environmental factors including exercise training, comorbidities or ageing. The interactions between all these factors in horses are still not completely understood and the pathophysiology of AF remains poorly defined. Exciting progress has been recently made in equine cardiac electrophysiology in terms of diagnosis and documentation methods such as cardiac mapping, implantable electrocardiogram (ECG) recording devices or computer-based ECG analysis that will hopefully improve our understanding of this disease. The available pharmaceutical and electrophysiological treatments have good efficacy and lead to a good prognosis for AF, but recurrence is a frequent issue that veterinarians have to face. This review aims to summarise our current understanding of equine cardiac electrophysiology and pathophysiology of equine AF while providing an overview of the mechanism of action for currently available treatments for equine AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Premont
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Samantha Balthes
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Celia M Marr
- Rossdales Equine Hospital and Diagnostic Centre, Newmarket, UK
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13
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Prevalence of cardiac arrhythmias and R-R interval variation in healthy Thoroughbred horses during official Chuckwagon races and recovery. Vet J 2020; 267:105583. [PMID: 33375959 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2020.105583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence and severity of cardiac arrhythmias in healthy racehorses undergoing competition is not well defined. The aim was to characterize arrhythmias in Thoroughbreds participating in official Chuckwagon races and to determine normal beat-to-beat (R-R) variability during supramaximal exercise. Electrocardiograph (ECG) recordings were obtained during pre-race, race, and active-recovery from 82 clinically healthy Thoroughbreds. ECG recordings were analyzed for arrhythmias and mean percent R-R deviation. Plasma lactate and high-sensitivity troponin (hs-cTnT) were also measured. Fifty-two ECGs were included in the analysis. Arrhythmias were seen in 48/52 horses (92%) and were predominantly isolated events. No complex rhythms were observed. During the race, 92% of horses had arrhythmias (81% supraventricular premature complex [SVPC]; 33% ventricular premature complex [VPC]). Eleven percent of racing arrhythmias were VPCs (all singlets except for two couplets). During active-recovery, 58% of horses had arrhythmias (56% SVPC; 15% VPCs): Three horses had VPC couplets and one horse had a VPC triplet. All plasma hs-cTnT were within normal limits. The measured lactate was 28.5 ± 4.5 mmol/L, confirming supramaximal exercise. R-R variation ranged between -9.5 to +18.8% during pre-race (mean heart rate [HR], 155 ± 22 beats per min [bpm]), -27.8 to +45.3% during racing (mean HR, 200 ± 9 bpm) and -16.4 to +40.1% during active-recovery (mean HR, 165 ± 14 bpm). Maximal and 1st percentile R-R shortening and lengthening were significantly greater at race than pre-race and active-recovery (P < 0.0001). Racing and active-recovery maximal R-R lengthening were significantly greater than pre-race (P = 0.0003). Supraventricular premature complexes and VPCs are prevalent in healthy horses undergoing Chuckwagon racing. R-R variation is greater during racing than has previously been described.
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Reef VB, Davidson EJ, Slack J, Stefanovski D. Hypercapnia and hyperlactatemia were positively associated with higher-grade arrhythmias during peak exercise in horses during poor performance evaluation on a high-speed treadmill. Vet J 2020; 266:105572. [PMID: 33323171 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2020.105572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Cardiac arrhythmias are common in horses during exercise, especially immediately post-exercise. The objectives of this study were to: (1) describe the frequency and type of cardiac arrhythmias detected in horses during incremental high-speed treadmill exercise testing (ITET); (2) determine if arterial blood gas (ABG) changes at peak and immediately post-exercise were associated with arrhythmias; and (3) determine whether upper or lower airway disease was associated with exercising cardiac arrhythmias. Horses (n = 368) presenting for an ITET underwent resting and exercising upper airway endoscopy, resting, exercising and post-exercise electrocardiography, resting and post-exercise echocardiography and exercising ABG. Arrhythmias were graded by the most severe arrhythmia present. Grade 1 arrhythmias were defined as one or two atrial (APCs) or ventricular premature complexes (VPCs), or one APC and one VPC, detected in 6.9% at peak and 16% at 0-2 min post exercise.. Grade 2 arrhythmias were >2 APCs or VPCs, or both, detected in 5.8% at peak and 16.6% at 0-2 min post exercise. Grade 3 included complex arrhythmias (couplets, triplets, R on T, multiform complexes or paroxysmal atrial or ventricular tachycardia), detected in 4.4% at peak and 7.3% at 0-2 min post exercise. Both partial pressure of arterial CO2 (PaCO2; P = 0.008) and lactate (P = 0.031) were significantly associated with arrhythmias occurring at peak exercise, but not immediately post-exercise. As PaCO2 and lactate increased, arrhythmia severity increased. Blood pH was significantly associated with grades 2 and 3 arrhythmias at 0-2 min post ITET (OR = 0.0002; P < 0.001). There was no significant association between grades 2 and 3 cardiac arrhythmias, inflammatory airway disease (IAD), or exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH). When adjusted for lactate concentration (P = 0.06), higher PaCO2 concentrations in horses with and without exercising upper respiratory tract (URT) obstruction were associated with higher likelihood of grades 2 and 3 arrhythmias (P < 0.01). This study demonstrated that at peak exercise, with severe hypercapnia and hyperlactatemia, there was increased risk for grades 2 or 3 cardiac arrhythmias and, as the PaCO2 and lactate values increased further, the severity of those arrhythmias increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- V B Reef
- Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania, 382 West Street Rd., Kennett Square, PA 19348, USA.
| | - E J Davidson
- Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania, 382 West Street Rd., Kennett Square, PA 19348, USA
| | - J Slack
- Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania, 382 West Street Rd., Kennett Square, PA 19348, USA
| | - D Stefanovski
- Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania, 382 West Street Rd., Kennett Square, PA 19348, USA
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15
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joann Slack
- Department of Clinical Studies, New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, USA
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16
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Abstract
There have been some advances in understanding the genetic contribution to ventricular septal defects in Arabians, sudden death in racehorses, and atrial fibrillation in racehorses. No genetic analyses have been published for aortic rupture in Friesians or atrioventricular block in donkeys despite strong evidence for a genetic cause. To date, no genetic mutation has been identified for any equid cardiac disease. With the advancement of genetic tools and resources, we are moving closer to discoveries that may explain the heritable basis of inherited equid cardiac disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha L Fousse
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA; Stern Comparative Cardiac Genetics Laboratory, UC Davis, 2108 Tupper Hall, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Joshua A Stern
- Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA; Stern Comparative Cardiac Genetics Laboratory, UC Davis, 2108 Tupper Hall, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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17
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Navas de Solis C. Ventricular arrhythmias in horses: Diagnosis, prognosis and treatment. Vet J 2020; 261:105476. [PMID: 32741491 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2020.105476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) are often incidental or coincidental with systemic disease. Ventricular arrhythmias are also the most likely cause of many sudden cardiac deaths in horses. This dichotomy creates challenges in the management of horses with VAs. This review presents current knowledge of diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of VAs in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristobal Navas de Solis
- Department of Clinical Studies New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, PA 19348, USA.
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18
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Gallant L, Jacob S, Tadros E, Woodrow J, Hines M, Ewart S, Schott H. Rapid screening for cardiac arrhythmias in competition draft horses. COMPARATIVE EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.3920/cep190029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac arrhythmias may cause decreased performance and sudden death during exercise. Our objectives were: (1) to determine prevalence of unrecognised arrhythmias in a population of competition draft horses by performing short duration screening electrocardiograms (ECGs) at rest; and (2) to assess utility of a commercial handheld device for recording equine ECGs. Owners or trainers of 244 draft horses (age 0.5-16 years), including 82 Percherons, 69 Belgians, 69 Clydesdales, 11 Belgian mules, 8 Shires, and 5 Percheron mules, were queried to determine signalment, performance history, and known arrhythmias. All horses were auscultated for 30 s and ECGs were obtained in 204 horses using a handheld recording device (AliveCor®). ECGs were reviewed for quality and used to determine heart rate (HR) and rhythm. When ECG tracing quality permitted, PQ and QT intervals were also measured. ECGs displaying RR intervals adequate for HR determination and rhythm assessment were recorded from 161 horses (79%) while tracings with consistent P waves, QRS complexes, and T waves were recorded from only 47 horses (23%). Four arrhythmias were detected by both auscultation and ECG: atrial fibrillation (1), premature complexes (1), and second-degree atrioventricular block (2). None of these horses had a history of poor performance or previous recognition of an arrhythmia. The prevalence of unrecognised, and potentially clinically significant, arrhythmias in draft horses at rest appears to be low (2/244; 0.8%, 95% confidence interval 0.1-2.9%). Longer recordings at rest, as well as recordings during and immediately after exercise, would likely have revealed a higher prevalence of arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- L.R. Gallant
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 736 Wilson Rd Room D202, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Newcastle Equine Centre, P.O. Box 123, Broadmeadow, New South Wales 2292, Australia
| | - S.I. Jacob
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 736 Wilson Rd Room D202, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - E.M. Tadros
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 736 Wilson Rd Room D202, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - J.S. Woodrow
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, 2407 River Dr, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - M.T. Hines
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, 2407 River Dr, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - S.L. Ewart
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 736 Wilson Rd Room D202, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - H.C. Schott
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 736 Wilson Rd Room D202, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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19
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Durando MM. Cardiovascular Causes of Poor Performance and Exercise Intolerance and Assessment of Safety in the Equine Athlete. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract 2019; 35:175-190. [PMID: 30871825 DOI: 10.1016/j.cveq.2018.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Horses have a high prevalence of resting arrhythmias, cardiac murmurs, and valvular regurgitation, and training can increase the prevalence. This makes it challenging for equine veterinarians who are asked to evaluate horses for poor performance to determine the clinical relevance of some findings. In addition, cardiac disease has the potential to cause collapse or sudden death, putting both the horse and rider at risk. Further diagnostics, such as echocardiograms and resting and exercising ECGs can help to sort out the impact of an abnormality found on resting physical examination. However uncertainty over the importance of some findings continues to exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary M Durando
- Equine Sports Medicine Consultants, LLC, 40 East Main Street, Suite 232, Newark, DE 19711, USA.
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20
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Abstract
Cardiac murmurs are not uncommonly detected in the equine athlete. Although most are benign in nature, differentiation and quantification of murmurs due to valvular regurgitation are important for prognosis and recommendations. Arrhythmias can be associated with structural disease or occur independently and may range in severity from minimal clinical effect to poor performance to presenting a safety risk to rider and horse. This article discusses commonly encountered cardiac conditions in the sport horse. Physical examination, diagnostic approach, valvular disease, and arrhythmias with an impact on performance or ridden safety are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine B Chope
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, 200 Westboro Road, North Grafton, MA 01536, USA.
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21
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Solis CN, Althaus F, Basieux N, Burger D. Sudden death in sport and riding horses during and immediately after exercise: A case series. Equine Vet J 2018; 50:644-648. [DOI: 10.1111/evj.12803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Navas Solis
- Swiss Institute of Equine Medicine Vetsuisse Faculty University of Bern, and Agroscope Bern Switzerland
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences Texas A&M University College Station Texas USA
| | - F. Althaus
- Swiss Institute of Equine Medicine Vetsuisse Faculty University of Bern, and Agroscope Bern Switzerland
| | - N. Basieux
- Swiss Equestrian Federation Bern Switzerland
| | - D. Burger
- Swiss Institute of Equine Medicine Vetsuisse Faculty University of Bern, and Agroscope Bern Switzerland
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22
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Gunther-Harrington CT, Arthur R, Estell K, Martinez Lopez B, Sinnott A, Ontiveros E, Varga A, Stern JA. Prospective pre- and post-race evaluation of biochemical, electrophysiologic, and echocardiographic indices in 30 racing thoroughbred horses that received furosemide. BMC Vet Res 2018; 14:18. [PMID: 29347921 PMCID: PMC5774161 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-018-1336-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Exercise induced cardiac fatigue (EICF) and cardiac dysrhythmias are well described conditions identified in high-level human athletes that increase in frequency with intensity and duration of exercise. Identification of these conditions requires an understanding of normal pre- and post-race cardiac assessment values. The objectives of this study were to (1) characterize selected indices of cardiac function, electrophysiologic parameters, and biochemical markers of heart dysfunction prior to and immediately after high level racing in Thoroughbred horses receiving furosemide; and (2) create pre- and post-race reference values in order to make recommendations on possible screening practices for this population in the future. Results Thirty Thoroughbred horses were enrolled in the study with an age range of 3–6 years. All horses received furosemide prior to racing. Physical exams, ECGs, and echocardiograms were performed prior to racing (T0) and within 30–60 min following the race (T1). Blood samples were obtained at T0, T1, 4 h post-race (T4) and 24 h after the race (T24). Electrolytes, hematocrit, cardiac troponin I, and partial pressure CO2 values were obtained at all time points. Heart rate was significantly increased post-race compared to baseline value with a median difference of 49 bpm, 95% CI [31,58],(P < 0.0001). No dysrhythmias were noted during ECG assessment. Following the race, an increase in number of horses demonstrating regurgitation through the aorta and AV valves was noted. Systolic function measured by fractional shortening increased significantly with a mean difference of 7.9%, 95% CI [4.8, 10.9], (P < 0.0001). Cardiac troponin I was not different at pre- and immediately post-race time points, but was significantly increased at T4 (P < 0.001). Troponin returned to baseline value by T24. Conclusions This study utilized a before and after study design where each horse served as its own control, as such the possible effect of regression to the mean cannot be ruled out. The reference intervals generated in this study may be used to identify selected echocardiographic and electrocardiographic abnormalities in racing horses receiving furosemide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine T Gunther-Harrington
- Department of Medicine & Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Rick Arthur
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Krista Estell
- William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital (VMTH), University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.,Present Address: Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Leesburg, VA, 20176, USA
| | - Beatriz Martinez Lopez
- Center for Animal Disease Modeling And Surveillance (CADMS), Department of Medicine & Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Alexandra Sinnott
- Department of Medicine & Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Eric Ontiveros
- Department of Medicine & Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Anita Varga
- William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital (VMTH), University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.,Present Address: Gold Coast Veterinary Service & Consulting, Esparto, CA, 95627, USA
| | - Joshua A Stern
- Department of Medicine & Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, 95616, USA.
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23
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Wijnberg I, Franklin S. The heart remains the core: cardiac causes of poor performance in horses compared to human athletes. COMPARATIVE EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY 2017. [DOI: 10.3920/cep170012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac remodelling occurs in response to exercise and is generally beneficial for athletic performance due to the increase in cardiac output. However, this remodelling also may lead to an increased prevalence of cardiac murmurs and arrhythmias. In most cases, these are not considered to be significant. However, in some cases, there may be potentially deleterious consequences. Whilst sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a rare occurrence, the consequences are catastrophic for both the horse and potentially the rider or driver. Furthermore, the sudden death of a horse in the public arena has negative connotations in regards to public perception of welfare during equestrian sports. Prediction of which individuals might be susceptible to potential deleterious effects of exercise is a focus of interest in both human and equine athletes but remains a challenge because many athletes experience cardiac murmurs and exercise-induced arrhythmias that are clinically irrelevant. This review summarises the effects of exercise on cardiac remodelling in the horse and the potential effects on athletic performance and SCD. The use of biomarkers and their future potential in the management of athletic horses is also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- I.D. Wijnberg
- Department of Equine Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 114, 3584 CM, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - S.H. Franklin
- Equine Health and Performance Centre, School of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
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24
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Right ventricular function during pharmacological and exercise stress testing in horses. Vet J 2017; 227:8-14. [PMID: 29031332 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2017.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The disproportionate rise of pulmonary artery pressure compared to systemic blood pressure during exercise can lead to detrimental right ventricular remodelling in endurance athletes. Horses may act as an extreme model of these athletic cardiovascular adaptations, as they show a three fold increase in pulmonary pressures during exercise. Right ventricular function was examined in ten healthy horses using post-exercise and pharmacological stress echocardiography in a randomised cross-over design. Exercise testing was performed on a treadmill while pharmacological testing was performed using an atropine-dobutamine infusion. Heart rate, systemic blood pressure and cardiac output during echocardiography were similar post-exercise compared to maximal pharmacological stress. Systolic pulmonary artery pressure was significantly higher during the exercise test (121±15mmHg) and during immediate post-exercise echocardiography (93±10mmHg) compared to maximal pharmacological stress (69±12mmHg). Right ventricular diameters as well as the ratio of systolic right to left ventricular area were higher post-exercise. Right ventricular fractional area change was significantly decreased post-exercise (40.5±6.2%) compared to a significant increase during pharmacological stress echocardiography (72.6±7.3%). Serum cardiac troponin I concentration was significantly higher 2h after the pharmacological test compared to baseline values and post-exercise, although the highest value was found post-exercise in the horse with the highest systolic pulmonary artery pressure and lowest right ventricular fractional area change. Pharmacological stress testing is not recommended in further studies on right ventricular adaptations in athletic horses, as this does not reproduce the effects of exercise.
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25
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Navas de Solis C, Sampson SN, McKay T, Whitfield-Cargile C. Standardised exercise testing in 17 reining horses: Musculoskeletal, respiratory, cardiac and clinicopathological findings. EQUINE VET EDUC 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.12775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Navas de Solis
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences; Texas A&M University; College Station Texas USA
| | - S. N. Sampson
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences; Texas A&M University; College Station Texas USA
| | - T. McKay
- Athletics Department; Texas A&M University; College Station Texas USA
| | - C. Whitfield-Cargile
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences; Texas A&M University; College Station Texas USA
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26
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Shave R, Howatson G, Dickson D, Young L. Exercise-Induced Cardiac Remodeling: Lessons from Humans, Horses, and Dogs. Vet Sci 2017; 4:vetsci4010009. [PMID: 29056668 PMCID: PMC5606617 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci4010009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2016] [Revised: 01/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Physical activity is dependent upon the cardiovascular system adequately delivering blood to meet the metabolic and thermoregulatory demands of exercise. Animals who regularly exercise therefore require a well-adapted heart to support this delivery. The purpose of this review is to examine cardiac structure, and the potential for exercise-induced cardiac remodeling, in animals that regularly engage in strenuous activity. Specifically, we draw upon the literature that has studied the "athlete's heart" in humans, horses, and dogs, to enable the reader to compare and contrast cardiac remodeling in these three athletic species. The available literature provides compelling evidence for exercise-induced cardiac remodeling in all three species. However, more work is required to understand the influence of species/breed specific genetics and exercise-related hemodynamics, in order to fully understand the impact of exercise on cardiac structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rob Shave
- Cardiff Centre for Exercise and Health, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff CF23 6XD, UK.
| | - Glyn Howatson
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne TN1 8ST, UK.
- Water Research Group, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa.
| | | | - Lesley Young
- Specialist equine Cardiology Services, Moulton, Suffolk CB8 8SD, UK.
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