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Müller CE. Dry matter concentration, particle size distribution and sand presence in faeces from horses with and without colic. J Equine Vet Sci 2024; 139:105126. [PMID: 38852928 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2024.105126] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
A study comprising 74 colic and 74 control horses admitted to an animal hospital was performed. Faecal samples were collected and analysed for dry matter concentration, particle size distribution using wet-sieving, and sand presence through a sand sedimentation test. Data on horse breed, age, gender and basic feeding variables was collected and analysed using χ2-tests. Faecal dry matter concentration, particle size distribution and sand score was compared between colic and non-colic horses, and between horses with different colic types, using one-way ANOVA. Results showed that colic and non-colic horse groups were similar in breed, age, gender and basic feeding variables. Faecal dry matter concentration, particle size distribution and sand score were similar among colic and non-colic horses. Horses diagnosed with "unknown colic cause" had higher proportion of particles >0.5 <1.0 mm size compared to horses with colic due to impactions in caecum or colon, torsion or gas accumulation (P<0.05), but this difference was very small and most likely not of biological importance. Faecal dry matter concentration and sand score were similar among horses with different types of colic. Increased knowledge of the composition of particles of different size in equine faeces may enhance our understanding of digesta passage rate in colic and non-colic horses, which is needed to develop preventative measures of certain types of colic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia E Müller
- Department of Applied Animal Science and Welfare, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, PO Box 7024, SE-75007 Uppsala, Sweden.
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Fikri F, Hendrawan D, Wicaksono AP, Purnomo A, Khairani S, Chhetri S, Purnama MTE, Çalışkan H. Colic incidence, risk factors, and therapeutic management in a working horse population in Tuban, Indonesia. Vet World 2024; 17:963-972. [PMID: 38911082 PMCID: PMC11188878 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2024.963-972] [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: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Colic is the primary problem affecting equestrian care worldwide. The primary cause of colic is digestive diseases; however, they can also affect organs from different systems in the abdominal region. In addition to a prior history of the disease and its treatment, risk factors may be assessed to determine the etiology of the disease in horses without or with a history of colic. This study aimed to present a summary of the incidence, risk factors, and medical procedures for colic in horses. Materials and Methods Based on owner reports, 223 horses in Tuban, Indonesia, suspected of having colic were investigated. During the investigation of clinical parameters, investigators went door-to-door with interested horse owners to gather information about potential risk factors related to equine colic. Information on horses diagnosed with colic was obtained from the medical records of treatment. A Chi-square test was used to investigate the potential association between the risk factors, medical protocol, and the outcome of colic in horses. Results Of the 187 cases, spasmodic colic was the most common (48.13%), but 17 (9.09%) had no definitive diagnosis. Poor body condition scores (χ2 = 58.73; p < 0.001), wheat bran feeding (χ2 = 26.79; p < 0.001), concentrate (χ2 = 10.66; p < 0.01), less access to water (χ2 = 128.24; p < 0.001), recurrence of colic (χ2 = 85.64; p < 0.001), no deworming program (χ2 = 54.76; p < 0.001), the presence of gastrointestinal parasites (χ2 = 56.79; p < 0.001), stressed physical activity (χ2 = 28.53; p < 0.001), and summer season (χ2 = 7.83; p < 0.01) were the risk factors for colic. We further reported that 185 (98.93%) patients who received the following medical interventions recovered: injection of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs was necessary, Vitamin B complex (χ2 = 39.98; p < 0.001), fluid therapy (χ2 = 92.99; p < 0.001), and gastric intubation (χ2 = 4.09; p < 0.05). Conclusion The importance of colic was demonstrated in 187 (83.86%) of the 223 horses investigated in Tuban, Indonesia, documented. In this study, recommendations for medical procedures when colic risk factors have been determined are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faisal Fikri
- Department of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, Universitas Airlangga, Banyuwangi, Indonesia
| | - Dodit Hendrawan
- Animal Health Division, Indonesian Horse Veterinarian Association, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | | | - Agus Purnomo
- Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Shafia Khairani
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjajaran, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Shekhar Chhetri
- Department of Animal Science, College of Natural Resources, Royal University of Bhutan, Lobesa, Punakha, Bhutan
| | - Muhammad Thohawi Elziyad Purnama
- Department of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Sciences, Universitas Airlangga, Banyuwangi, Indonesia
- Department of Biology, Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Eskişehir Osmangazi Üniversitesi, Eskişehir, Türkiye
| | - Hakan Çalışkan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Eskişehir Osmangazi Üniversitesi, Eskişehir, Türkiye
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Gomez DE, Arroyo LG, Schoster A, Renaud DL, Kopper JJ, Dunkel B, Byrne D, Toribio RE. Diagnostic approaches, aetiological agents and their associations with short-term survival and laminitis in horses with acute diarrhoea admitted to referral institutions. Equine Vet J 2023. [PMID: 37984355 DOI: 10.1111/evj.14024] [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] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An international description of the diagnostic approaches used in different institutions to diagnose acute equine diarrhoea and the pathogens detected is lacking. OBJECTIVES To describe the diagnostic approach, aetiological agents, outcome, and development of laminitis for diarrhoeic horses worldwide. STUDY DESIGN Multicentre retrospective case series. METHODS Information from horses with acute diarrhoea presenting to participating institutions between 2016 and 2020, including diagnostic approaches, pathogens detected and their associations with outcomes, were compared between institutions or geographic regions. RESULTS One thousand four hundred and thirty-eight horses from 26 participating institutions from 4 continents were included. Overall, aetiological testing was limited (44% for Salmonella spp., 42% for Neorickettsia risticii [only North America], 40% for Clostridiodes difficile, and 29% for ECoV); however, 13% (81/633) of horses tested positive for Salmonella, 13% (35/262) for N. risticii, 9% (37/422) for ECoV, and 5% (27/578) for C. difficile. C. difficile positive cases had greater odds of non-survival than horses negative for C. difficile (OR: 2.69, 95%CI: 1.23-5.91). In addition, horses that were positive for N. risticii had greater odds of developing laminitis than negative horses (OR: 2.76, 95%CI: 1.12-6.81; p = 0.029). MAIN LIMITATIONS Due to the study's retrospective nature, there are missing data. CONCLUSIONS This study highlighted limited diagnostic investigations in cases of acute equine diarrhoea. Detection rates of pathogens are similar to previous reports. Non-survival and development of laminitis are related to certain detected pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego E Gomez
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Luis G Arroyo
- Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Angelika Schoster
- Vetsuisse Faculty, Equine Department University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Equine Clinic, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - David L Renaud
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jamie J Kopper
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ames, Iowa, USA
| | - Bettina Dunkel
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - David Byrne
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ramiro E Toribio
- College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Runge KE, Bak M, Vestergaard A, Staerk-Østergaard J, Jacobsen S, Pihl TH. Serum amyloid A does not predict non-survival in hospitalised adult horses with acute colitis. Vet Rec 2023; 192:e2644. [PMID: 36780213 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.2644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Predicting non-survival in horses with acute colitis improves early decision making. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prognostic value of serum amyloid A (SAA) and other clinicopathological and clinical variables in adult horses with acute colitis. METHODS Clinical variables, SAA and other blood biomarkers, including plasma L-lactate (lactate), were assessed in 176 horses with acute colitis. A multivariate model for the prediction of non-survival was constructed. Icelandic horses were analysed separately. RESULTS Admission SAA was similar in survivors (median 548 mg/L; range 0-5453 mg/L) and non-survivors (396 mg/L; 0-5294) (p = 0.43). A model for non-survival included year of admission, lactate, heart rate, age and colic duration of more than 24 hours. Icelandic horses had a relative risk of 2.9 (95% confidence interval = 2.2-3.8) for acute colitis compared to other breeds. Lactate in Icelandic horses was higher than that in other breeds in both survivors (4.0 mmol/L, range 1.0-12.7 vs. 2.0, 0.7-12.5) and non-survivors (10.0, 1.5-26 vs. 5.4, 0.8-22) (p < 0.001). LIMITATIONS The prognostic value of repeated measurements of SAA could not be assessed in this study, as 71% of the non-surviving horses died within a day of admission. CONCLUSION Admission SAA did not predict non-survival. Breed needs consideration when lactate is evaluated as a predictor for non-survival in horses with colitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kira Elisabeth Runge
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Maj Bak
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Amalie Vestergaard
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Jacob Staerk-Østergaard
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Animal Welfare and Disease Control, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stine Jacobsen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
| | - Tina Holberg Pihl
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Taastrup, Denmark
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Niinistö K, Sykes BW. Diagnosis and management of sand enteropathy in the horse. EQUINE VET EDUC 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.13562] [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)
- K. Niinistö
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine University of Helsinki Helsinki Finland
| | - B. W. Sykes
- School of Veterinary Sciences Massey University Palmerston North New Zealand
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Hatt JM, Codron D, Richter H, Kircher PR, Hummel J, Clauss M. Preliminary evidence for a forestomach washing mechanism in llamas ( Lama glama). Mamm Biol 2021; 101:941-948. [PMID: 34924918 PMCID: PMC8629863 DOI: 10.1007/s42991-021-00142-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Abstract
Dust and grit are ingested by herbivores in their natural habitats along with the plants that represent their selected diet. Among the functions of the rumen, a washing of ingesta from adhering dust and grit has recently been demonstrated. The putative consequence is a less strenuous wear on ruminant teeth by external abrasives during rumination. The same function should theoretically apply to camelids, but has not been investigated so far. We fed six llamas (Lama glama) a diet of grass hay and a lucerne-based pelleted food in which fine sand had been included at about 8% of ingredients, for ad libitum consumption for 6 weeks. Subsequently, animals were slaughtered and content of the different sections of the gastrointestinal tract was sampled for the analysis of dry matter (DM), total ash, and acid detergent insoluble ash (ADIA, a measure for silica). Additionally, two of the animals were subjected to whole-body computer tomography (CT) after death in the natural sternal resting position. No clinical problems or macroscopic changes in the faeces were observed during the experimental period. The results indicate an accumulation of ADIA in the C3 compartment of the stomach complex, in particular in the posterior portion that is the equivalent of the abomasum in ruminants. By contrast, contents of the C1, from which material is recruited for regurgitation and rumination, were depleted of ADIA, indicating that the contents had largely been washed free of sand. The washing effect is an unavoidable side effect of the flotation- and sedimentation-based sorting mechanisms in the ruminant and the camelid forestomachs. In theory, this should allow ruminants and camelids to live in similar habitats as nonruminant herbivores at lower degrees of hypsodonty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Michel Hatt
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daryl Codron
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of the Free State, PO Box 339, Bloemfontein, 9300 South Africa
| | - Henning Richter
- Clinic for Diagnostic Imaging, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 258c, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Patrick R. Kircher
- Clinic for Diagnostic Imaging, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 258c, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jürgen Hummel
- Ruminant Nutrition, Department of Animal Sciences, University of Goettingen, Kellnerweg 6, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- AgroVet Strickhof, Lindau Site, Eschikon 27, 8315 Lindau, Switzerland
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7
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Hanson RR, Schumacher J. Diagnosis, management and prognosis of large colon impactions. EQUINE VET EDUC 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.13120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R. Reid Hanson
- Department of Clinical Sciences JT Vaughan Teaching Hospital Auburn University Auburn Alabama USA
| | - J. Schumacher
- Department of Clinical Sciences JT Vaughan Teaching Hospital Auburn University Auburn Alabama USA
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Alonso J, Schmitt F, Sousa F, Rosa G, Esper C, Melo Neto G, Vettorato M, Fogaça J, Pantoja J, Watanabe M, Alves A, Rodrigues C, Machado V, Hussni C. Carboxymethylcellulose and psyllium effects in sand output of horses with asymptomatic sand accumulation. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2020. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-11525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Psyllium (PSY) and Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) administration on fecal elimination of sand in horses with asymptomatic sand accumulations. Eight horses were selected from sandy areas and randomly divided into 2 groups of four animals. The subjects were treated either with CMC or PSY. The presence of intestinal sand was confirmed through radiography and glove sedimentation test. The study was performed in two phases, with a 7-day interval. In phase I, all the animals received 8 liters of warm water; in phase II, the CMC group received 8 liters of water + 1g/kg of CMC, whereas the PSY group received 8 liters of water + 1g/kg of PSY. All administrations were performed through nasogastric intubation and fractionated in 2 equal volume administrations with an interval of two hours. General and specific physical examination of the digestive system were performed in conjunction with abdominal ultrasonography before the administrations and after 6, 12, 24, 36 and 48 hours, aiming to evaluate intestinal motility and presence of sand. All the feces eliminated by the animals within the 72 hours following the administrations were quantified, diluted and sedimented in order to calculate the sand output (g/kg of feces). All the animals were also subjected to radiographic examination to quantify sand accumulation prior to phase I and after 72 hours of phases I and II. No adverse effects were observed after the treatments. It was possible to notice higher sand elimination in both groups during the phase I, whereas no difference was observed in sand elimination rates between the groups in phase II. The radiographic scores presented differences between the initial timepoint and 72h in phases I and II for both groups. Based on the sand elimination rates and radiographic score, this study demonstrated that sand output was greater after administration of water alone, compared to CMC and Psyllium, leading to the inference that removal of the sandy environment and prevention of sand re-ingestion are effective measures for the elimination of sand from the colon of horses with asymptomatic sand accumulations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - G.S. Rosa
- Universidade Estadual Paulista, Brazil
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Hassel DM, Curley T, Hoaglund EL. Evaluation of Fecal Sand Clearance in Horses With Naturally Acquired Colonic Sand Accumulation With a Product Containing Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Psyllium. J Equine Vet Sci 2020; 90:102970. [PMID: 32534763 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2020.102970] [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: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Consumption of sand and dirt in horses can cause chronic diarrhea and colic because of irritation and obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract of horses. Prevention has primarily focused on changes in management to reduce the intake of sand and feeding of psyllium products. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a product containing probiotics, prebiotics, and psyllium in the clearance of colonic sand in horses with naturally acquired sand accumulation using a randomized, placebo-controlled, blinded clinical trial format. After identification of 10 horses with sand accumulation as determined by both auscultation and abdominal radiography, quantitative assessment of changes in colonic sand content in response to management changes combined with treatment with the probiotic/psyllium product or no treatment was assessed by blinded observers. Fecal sand output was monitored in both groups via sand sedimentation analysis of fecal samples every 3 days for 35 days and with pre- and post-treatment abdominal radiography. There was a significant reduction in sand accumulation in both treatment and control groups, but there were no significant differences between treatment and control groups in clearance of colonic sand as measured by both fecal sand sedimentation and quantitative radiography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana M Hassel
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO.
| | - Taylor Curley
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Elizabeth L Hoaglund
- Department of Environmental & Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
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Curtis L, Burford JH, England GCW, Freeman SL. Risk factors for acute abdominal pain (colic) in the adult horse: A scoping review of risk factors, and a systematic review of the effect of management-related changes. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0219307. [PMID: 31295284 PMCID: PMC6622499 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0219307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute abdominal pain (colic) is the most common reason for emergency veterinary treatment in the horse. Consolidation of data through a systematic review is important to inform evidence-based medicine and clinical guidelines, but there are currently no published systematic reviews on colic in the horse. The aim of this study was to identify, categorize and appraise the evidence on factors associated with increased risk of developing abdominal pain (colic) due to gastrointestinal disease in the adult horse. A scoping review was performed to identify and categorize evidence on all risk factors for colic. A systematic review of management-related risk factors was then performed following PRISMA guidelines. Both searches were conducted in Medline, CAB Abstracts and Web of Science databases, and publications were assessed against inclusion and exclusion criteria. For the scoping review, study and participant characteristics of included publications and key results were extracted and tabulated. For the systematic review, cohort, case-control or cross-sectional studies investigating acute abdominal pain in horses within two weeks of management changes were assessed. Study characteristics, participant characteristics and study results of included publications for the systematic review were extracted and tabulated. Included publications were appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tools for cohort, case-control and cross-sectional studies. The scoping review search identified 3,756 publications. Fifty eight studies met final inclusion criteria, and 22 categories of risk factors were identified. These were grouped into three broad areas: horse-related factors, management-related factors and environment-related factors. The largest body of evidence related to management change. The systematic review of management change identified 410 publications: 14 met inclusion criteria for analysis. These consisted of one cohort, eight case-control and five cross-sectional studies. The studies were conducted between 1990-2008, and the majority of studies were located in the USA (8/14) or UK (3/14). The risk factors related to management change that were assessed were feed, carer, exercise, pasture, water and housing. The largest bodies of evidence for increased risk of colic associated with management change were changes in feed (5/14 publications) and recent change in housing (3/14). Most studies (8/14) did not meet the JBI criterion on confounding factors. There was marked heterogeneity of study methodologies and measures. This is the first study to use a combined scoping and systematic review to analyse evidence for modifiable risk factors for a common condition in the horse. It provides a comprehensive review that will be a key resource for researchers, veterinary practitioners and horse owners. It identified modifiable risk factors associated with an increased risk of colic which should be a key target for preventative health programmes. The findings from the critical appraisal were used to develop recommendations for future research to improve the quality of evidence-based veterinary medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila Curtis
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonnington, Loughborough, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
| | - John H. Burford
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonnington, Loughborough, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
| | - Gary C. W. England
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonnington, Loughborough, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah L. Freeman
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonnington, Loughborough, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
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Niinistö KE, Määttä MA, Ruohoniemi MO, Paulaniemi M, Raekallio MR. Owner-Reported Clinical Signs and Management-Related Factors in Horses Radiographed for Intestinal Sand Accumulation. J Equine Vet Sci 2019; 80:10-15. [PMID: 31443826 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2019.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Clinical problems related to intestinal sand accumulation in horses are common in certain geographic areas, but the clinical signs appear nonspecific and the course of the accumulation remains somewhat obscure. This study examined the association between the presence and size of intestinal sand accumulations and owner-reported clinical signs, management, and feeding practices, as well as behavioral patterns in horses with radiographic diagnosis of sand accumulation. Owners of the horses filled in an online questionnaire. A total of 447 responses met the inclusion criteria. The size of the sand accumulation detected in the radiographs was not significantly associated with the age, body condition score, sex, or use of the horses. Horses reported to have expressed colic had significantly larger sand accumulations than those without this sign, and a similar association was detected in horses with poor performance. The highest odds ratio for sand accumulation was for the combination of colic and poor performance, followed by colic combined with diarrhea/loose feces or hyperesthesia to touch of the abdominal wall. Larger sand accumulations were detected in greedy horses that eat all their roughage, whereas dominant position in group hierarchy was associated with less sand. The possibility of abdominal sand accumulation should be considered as one of the differentials in horses with multiple owner-reported clinical signs such as colic, poor performance, diarrhea, and hyperesthesia to touch of the abdomen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kati E Niinistö
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Meri A Määttä
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mirja O Ruohoniemi
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Maria Paulaniemi
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Marja R Raekallio
- Department of Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Mönki J, Hewetson M, Virtala AMK. Risk Factors for Equine Gastric Glandular Disease: A Case-Control Study in a Finnish Referral Hospital Population. J Vet Intern Med 2018; 30:1270-5. [PMID: 27461724 PMCID: PMC5108429 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.14370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Revised: 03/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Equine gastric glandular disease (EGGD) is a term used to classify erosive and ulcerative diseases of the glandular mucosa of the equine stomach. Epidemiologic studies of risk factors for EGGD have not been reported. Objective To determine risk factors for EGGD. Animals Cases (n = 83) had endoscopic evidence of EGGD; controls (n = 34) included healthy horses and horses with equine squamous gastric disease (ESGD) without EGGD. Methods Retrospective case‐control study. The data were analyzed by multivariable logistic regression modeling. Analysis was performed on the full dataset. An additional analysis compared horses with glandular lesions (n = 43) against healthy horses (n = 22). Results On first analysis, Warmblood breed (OR = 13.9, 95% CI 2.2–90.9, P = .005) and an increasing number of caretakers (OR = 7.3, 95% CI 0.98–55.6, P = .053) were associated with an increased risk of EGGD. On analysis of the subset of data, Warmblood breed (OR = 28.6, 95% CI 2.96–250.0, P = .004) and increasing number of riders (OR = 12.99, 95% CI 0.94–166.7, P = .056) were risk factors. The presence of sand in the colon appeared to have a protective effect against EGGD (OR = 0.195, 95% CI 0.04–1.0, P = .051 for sand versus not having sand). Conclusions and clinical importance This study suggests that Warmbloods are predisposed to EGGD and multiple handlers/riders might increase the risk of EGGD. Identification of risk factors allows speculation on potential pathophysiological mechanisms of EGGD.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Mönki
- Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - M Hewetson
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - A-M K Virtala
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Kaikkonen R, Niinistö K, Lindholm T, Raekallio M. Comparison of psyllium feeding at home and nasogastric intubation of psyllium and magnesium sulfate in the hospital as a treatment for naturally occurring colonic sand (geosediment) accumulations in horses: a retrospective study. Acta Vet Scand 2016; 58:73. [PMID: 27733202 PMCID: PMC5059958 DOI: 10.1186/s13028-016-0254-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2016] [Accepted: 10/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ingestion of geosediment (further referred as sand) may cause weight loss, diarrhea and acute or recurrent colic in horses. Our aim was to compare the efficacy of three treatment protocols in clearing colonic sand accumulations in clinical patients. This retrospective clinical study consisted of 1097 horses and ponies, which were radiographed for the presence of colonic sand. Horses included to the study (n = 246) were displaying areas of sand in the radiographs of ≥75 cm2 and were treated medically monitoring the response with radiographs. The horses were assigned into three groups based on the given treatment: Group 1 was fed psyllium [1 g/kg body weight (BW)] daily at home for a minimum of 10 days (n = 57); Group 2 was treated once with psyllium or magnesium sulfate by nasogastric tubing followed by daily feeding of psyllium (1 g/kg BW) at home for a minimum of 10 days (n = 19), and Group 3 was treated by daily nasogastric tubing for 3-7 days with psyllium and/or magnesium sulfate (1 g of each/kg BW) (n = 170). RESULTS The initial area of sand did not differ significantly between the treatments. Group 3 had significantly less residual sand than Groups 1 and 2, and the proportion of resolved horses was higher in Group 3 than in Groups 1 and 2. CONCLUSIONS Daily nasogastric tubing with psyllium and/or magnesium sulfate for 3-7 days removes large accumulations of sand from the colon in horses more effectively than feeding psyllium for at least 10 days.
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House AM, Warren LK. Nutritional management of recurrent colic and colonic impactions. EQUINE VET EDUC 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/eve.12543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. M. House
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences; University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine; Gainesville USA
| | - L. K. Warren
- Department of Animal Sciences; University of Florida; Gainesville USA
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Niinistö K, Hewetson M, Kaikkonen R, Sykes BW, Raekallio M. Comparison of the effects of enteral psyllium, magnesium sulphate and their combination for removal of sand from the large colon of horses. Vet J 2014; 202:608-11. [PMID: 25458886 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2014.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2013] [Revised: 10/09/2014] [Accepted: 10/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Prospective studies documenting the efficacy and side effects of medical treatment for colonic sand accumulation in horses are limited. The purpose of the study was to compare the effect of enteral administration of magnesium sulphate (MgSO4), psyllium mucilloid (psyllium), and a combination of MgSO4 and psyllium on the evacuation of large accumulations of sand in the large colon of adult horses. Thirty-four horses with naturally acquired, large sand accumulations (>5 cm × 15 cm) identified on abdominal radiography were randomly allocated to one of three treatment groups: (1) 1 g/kg psyllium (n = 12); (2) 1 g/kg MgSO4 (n = 10), or (3) their combination (n = 12). Treatments were administered once a day via nasogastric intubation and continued for a total of 4 days. Lateral radiographs of the ventral abdomen were repeated on day 4 of treatment. If the area of sand in the radiographic image was <25 cm(2) on day 4, the sand accumulation was considered resolved. Of 12 horses treated with a combination of psyllium and MgSO4, nine evacuated the sand from the ventral colon within 4 days. In comparison, only 3/12 horses treated with psyllium and 2/10 horses treated with MgSO4 resolved (both significantly different from the combination; P <0.05). Large accumulations of sand in the large colon of horses can be treated medically. Administering a combination of psyllium and MgSO4 via nasogastric intubation once daily for a total of 4 days was a more effective treatment than either constituent alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kati Niinistö
- Department of Clinical Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 57, 00014, Finland.
| | - Michael Hewetson
- Department of Clinical Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 57, 00014, Finland
| | | | - Ben W Sykes
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu 05800, Estonia
| | - Marja Raekallio
- Department of Clinical Equine and Small Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 57, 00014, Finland
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Abstract
This article presents an overview of key factors that should alert the practitioner toward referral of a colic patient to a facility capable of surgical exploration or intensive medical management. Discussion includes a review of important aspects of colic history, signalment, physical examination findings, and diagnostic test results that indicate that a more serious medical or surgical condition exists, and advanced therapy is necessary.
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Aytekin I, Onmaz AC, Aypak SU, Gunes V, Kucuk O. Changes in serum mineral concentrations, biochemical and hematological parameters in horses with pica. Biol Trace Elem Res 2011; 139:301-7. [PMID: 20213346 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-010-8660-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2010] [Accepted: 02/18/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to compare hematological, some biochemical parameters, and serum trace element concentrations in horses with or without pica. Fifteen horses with pica (group I) and another 15 healthy horses without pica (group II) were used. The hematological parameters were not changed between the two groups. In group I, hemoglobin values were lower than those of group II. However, the difference in hemoglobin values between the two groups was not significant (P > 0.05). Serum iron and copper concentrations and the copper/zinc ratio were lower in group I than those of group II (P < 0.05). The other biochemical parameters were not found to be statistically different between the two groups (P > 0.05). It was concluded that serum iron and copper deficiency may play an important role for the etiology of pica in horses. Prophylactic use of iron and copper supplements in horses may be beneficial to prevent pica.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismail Aytekin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mustafa Kemal, Hatay, Turkey
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Granot N, Milgram J, Bdolah-Abram T, Shemesh I, Steinman A. Surgical management of sand colic impactions in horses: a retrospective study of 41 cases. Aust Vet J 2008; 86:404-7. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-0813.2008.00348.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Kendall A, Ley C, Egenvall A, Bröjer J. Radiographic parameters for diagnosing sand colic in horses. Acta Vet Scand 2008; 50:17. [PMID: 18554381 PMCID: PMC2467425 DOI: 10.1186/1751-0147-50-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2008] [Accepted: 06/13/2008] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ingestion of sand can cause colic, diarrhoea and weight loss in horses, but these signs are unspecific and can have many other causes. The amount of sand that induces disease may vary between individuals. To avoid over-diagnosing, it is important to determine the amount of sand that can be found in horses without clinical signs of gastrointestinal disease. The aim of this study was to use previously suggested parameters for establishing a radiographic diagnosis of sand colic, and compare these findings between a sand colic group and a control group. METHODS Abdominal radiographs were obtained in 30 horses with a complaint unrelated to the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, archived abdominal radiographs of 37 clinical cases diagnosed with sand impaction were investigated. The size of the mineral opacity indicative of sand in the abdomen was measured and graded according to a previously published protocol based on height and length. Location, homogeneity, opacity and number of sand accumulations were also recorded. RESULTS Twenty out of 30 control horses (66%) had one or more sand accumulations. In the present study; height, length and homogeneity of the accumulations were useful parameters for establishing a diagnosis of sand colic. Radiographically defined intestinal sand accumulation grades of up to 2 was a common finding in horses with no clinical signs from the gastrointestinal tract whereas most of the clinical cases had much larger grades, indicating larger sand accumulations. CONCLUSION Further work to establish a reliable grading system for intestinal sand content is warranted, but a previously proposed grading system based on measurements of height and length may be an alternative for easy assessment of sand accumulations in the meantime. The present study indicates that a grade 1 - 2 sand accumulation in the intestine is a frequent finding in horses. When working up a case with clinical signs from the gastrointestinal tract, one or more accumulations of this grade should not be considered the cause until other possibilities have been ruled out.
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Irregular Tooth Wear and Longevity in Captive Wild Ruminants: A Pilot Survey of Necropsy Reports. J Zoo Wildl Med 2008; 39:69-75. [DOI: 10.1638/06-064.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Fecal Sand Clearance Is Enhanced with a Product Combining Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Psyllium in Clinically Normal Horses. J Equine Vet Sci 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2008.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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