Fielding CL, Pusterla N, Magdesian KG, Higgins JC, Meier CA. Rattlesnake envenomation in horses: 58 cases (1992-2009).
J Am Vet Med Assoc 2011;
238:631-5. [PMID:
21355806 DOI:
10.2460/javma.238.5.631]
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE
To characterize signalment, clinical and laboratory findings, treatment, and outcome in horses with rattlesnake envenomation in northern California.
DESIGN
Retrospective case series.
ANIMALS
58 client-owned horses evaluated for rattlesnake envenomation at 2 referral hospitals from 1992 to 2009.
PROCEDURES
Records of horses with rattlesnake envenomation were reviewed, and data concerning signalment, clinical and laboratory findings, treatment, and outcome were collected. In addition, a rattlesnake-bite severity score (RBSS) was assigned to each horse. Variables were compared between horses that survived and those that did not.
RESULTS
The overall mortality rate was 9%. Nine horses received antivenin; no complications were reported and none of the 9 died. The most common laboratory findings associated with severity of envenomation were thrombocytopenia, hypoproteinemia, hyperlactatemia, and a high RBSS.
CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE
Most horses in this study had a good prognosis after being bitten by rattlesnakes. Laboratory and clinical examination findings may be useful for identifying horses with a poorer prognosis. Treatment with antivenin may be beneficial and warrants further evaluation.
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