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Hurn, S. D., & Turner, A. G. (2006). Ophthalmic examination findings of Thoroughbred racehorses in Australia. Vet Ophthalmol, 9(2), 95–100.
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To record the prevalence and document the types of eye disease in population of Thoroughbred racehorses in Victoria, Australia. DESIGN: Prospective study. ANIMALS: Two hundred four Thoroughbred racehorses. PROCEDURE: All horses and both eyes were examined at four metropolitan and two country racing stable complexes. Ophthalmic exam was performed following dark adaptation with a transilluminator, biomicroscope, and direct ophthalmoscope. Intraocular pressures were measured when indicated. Both pupils were dilated with tropicamide when indicated. RESULTS: One hundred eighty-two (89.2%) flat-racing and 22 (10.8%) jump-racing (hurdle or steeple) horses were examined. Age range: 2-9 years (mean 3.7 years, median 3); 97 (47.5%) male-neuter, 74 (36. 3%) female, 33 (16.2%) male. Potential vision-threatening eye disease was present in 15 (7.4%) different horses: complete lenticular cataracts 3, posterior lens luxation and cataract 1, large peripapillary 'butterfly' inactive lesions 3, large peripapillary 'butterfly' active lesions 2, peripapillary focal inactive 'bullet hole' chorioretinal lesions (> 20) 5, optic nerve atrophy 1. Non-vision threatening eye disease was present in 117 (57.4%) different horses, involving one or more ocular structures: lower eyelid scars 3; periocular fibropapillomatous disease 1; third eyelid squamous cell carcinoma 1; corneal scars 6; corneal band opacity 2; anterior iris synechia 1; developmental cataracts 36 (17.2%); peripapillary focal inactive 'bullet hole' chorioretinal lesions (< 20) 103 (50.0%); linear peripapillary hyperpigmentation bands 16 (7.9%). Unusual variations of normal ocular anatomy and colobomata was recorded in 11 (5.4%) different horses: granular iridica hypoplasia 3, granular iridica hyperplasia 2, multilobular granular iridica cyst 1, microcornea 1, hyaloid remnant 1, rotated optic nerve head 1, coloboma of the lens 1, atypical coloboma of the retina 1. CONCLUSIONS: This survey demonstrates that the prevalence of vision-threatening eye disease in racing horses may be greater than previously perceived, and highlights the importance of ocular examination within any routine physical examination of horses.
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Hertsch, B. (1992). [The appearance of stress on the movement apparatus in dressage, jumping and versatility horses]. Dtsch Tierarztl Wochenschr, 99(1), 36–39.
Abstract: Jumping and military (three days events) horses are exposed, during sports activities, to a particularly high stress especially in the region of the extremities (limbs). The genesis of tendon, joint and bone diseases are traced in accordance to the centers of the load during movement sequence. A special statistics on injuries concerning the German competition horses does not exist yet. Out of the available statistics about the German competition horses it is not obvious that as a result of its use as sports horses a particular high loss occur among these horses.
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Dart, A. J., Snyder, J. R., Pascoe, J. R., Meagher, D. M., & Wilson, W. D. (1992). Prepurchase evaluation of horses: 134 cases (1988-1990). J Am Vet Med Assoc, 201(7), 1061–1067.
Abstract: To quantify some components of prepurchase evaluations in horses, records from 134 evaluations performed during a 2-year period were reviewed and the outcome was determined via telephone follow-up interview. Sixty-two percent of the prepurchase evaluations had been performed at the clinic and 38% had been performed in the field by the ambulatory service. All evaluations included physical and lameness examinations, whereas radiography (49%), endoscopy (15%), nerve blocking (5%), transrectal palpation (3%), hematologic analysis (2%), electrocardiography (2%), drug testing for analgesic agents (2%), and ultrasonography of the flexor tendons (1%) were not always performed. Fifty-nine percent of horses evaluated at the clinic were radiographed, compared with 33% of horses evaluated in the field (P less than 0.05). Thirty-seven percent of horses evaluated were judged serviceable for their intended use. Thirty-five percent of horses evaluated at the clinic were assessed to be serviceable, compared with 41% of those evaluated in the field (P less than 0.05). Horses used for pleasure riding (48%) tended to be considered serviceable more often than horses used for more athletic endeavors (3-day eventing, 33%; hunter/jumper, 24%; show, 31%; dressage, 30%). The most common basis for finding a horse unserviceable was lameness (88%).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
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Dabareiner, R. M., Sullins, K. E., & White, N. A. 2nd. (1993). Progression of femoropatellar osteochondrosis in nine young horses. Clinical, radiographic and arthroscopic findings. Vet Surg, 22(6), 515–523.
Abstract: The clinical and radiographic progression, and arthroscopic findings for nine young horses (< 1 year of age) with femoropatellar osteochondrosis (OCD) are presented. Horses had a 2 to 12 week history of bilateral (8 horses) or unilateral (1 horse) hindlimb lameness. The most consistent clinical signs included femoropatellar joint distention and bilateral hindlimb lameness. At the onset of clinical signs, radiographic lesions were not present (4 horses) or subtle (5 horses), but were easily identified on radiographs taken 4 to 24 weeks later. Arthroscopic surgery was delayed until radiographic changes became obvious. Surgical findings in 20 femoropatellar joints were most commonly osteochondral “flaps” located on the proximal lateral trochlear ridge of the femur and were larger than had been indicated by the radiographs. Eight horses were being used for their intended purpose, which was racing (3 horses were racing and 3 were in race training), dressage (1 horse) or pleasure riding (1 horse). One horse required a second surgery when similar lesions developed on the opposite stifle, and was euthanatized 2 months later because of persistent lameness. One clinical signs are observed, osteochondrosis lesions of the distal femur can progress in foals younger than 9 months of age and the full extent of the radiographic lesion may take several weeks to develop.
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Gibson, K. T., Burbidge, H. M., & Anderson, B. H. (1997). Tendonitis of the branches of insertion of the superficial digital flexor tendon in horses. Aust Vet J, 75(4), 253–256.
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To describe clinical findings, ultrasonographic features and outcome of injury to the branches of insertion of the superficial digital flexor (SDF) tendon in horses. DESIGN: Retrospective study of 14 cases. PROCEDURE: Fourteen Thoroughbred horses with tendonitis affecting the branches of insertion of the SDF tendon were examined for lameness, location and amount of swelling, and the presence of other musculoskeletal abnormalities. The flexor tendons were assessed by ultrasonographic examination, and recommendations were made for management of the cases. Outcome was assessed by re-examination of some horses, direct communication with the owner or trainer, and examination of race records. RESULTS: The lateral SDF branch was affected in 10 horses; the medial branch in three, and both branches in one horse. Two horses had concurrent injuries to the SDF tendon in the metacarpal region of the contralateral limb. Ultrasonographic findings included swelling of the affected SDF branch, peritendinous fluid accumulation, disruption of normal fibre alignment on sagittal scan, and variable loss of echogenicity. As healing occurred, there was return of normal echogenicity, but normal fibre alignment did not return completely and apparent adhesions formed between the affected SDF branch and adjacent structures. Seven of 10 horses which returned to their previous use were able to compete without further tendon injury. Recurrence of injury occurred in one case, and another two horses developed tendonitis in the metacarpal region. One horse was retired from racing but was able to compete at dressage without recurrence of injury. Two horses were retired for breeding without returning to training, and one horse was sold and lost to follow up but did not race. CONCLUSION: The prognosis is fair for return to previous use following injury to the branches of insertion of the SDF tendon in athletic horses.
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Quiroz-Rothe, E., Novales, M., Aguilera-Tejero, E., & Rivero, J. L. L. (2002). Polysaccharide storage myopathy in the M. longissimus lumborum of showjumpers and dressage horses with back pain. Equine Vet J, 34(2), 171–176.
Abstract: This study was designed to investigate whether horses with clinical signs of back pain due to suspected soft tissue injuries were affected by polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM). Diagnosis of PSSM in muscle biopsies obtained from the M. longissimus lumborum of 5 showjumpers and 4 dressage horses with a history of back pain is reported. M. longissimus lumborum biopsies of these horses were characterised histopathologically and in 3/9 cases also by electron microscopy. Observations were compared with M. gluteus biopsies of the same horses, and with M. gluteus biopsies obtained from 6 Standardbreds with recurrent exertional rhabdomyolysis and from 6 healthy trotters. M. longissimus biopsies from horses with back pain showed pathognomonic signs of PSSM, i.e. high glycogen and/or abnormal complex amylase-resistant polysaccharide deposits. Similar features were found in M. gluteus biopsies of the same horses. Sections of horses with rhabdomyolysis had increased PAS stain when compared with healthy horses, but did not show amylase-resistant material. Qualitative observations were corroborated by quantitative histochemistry (optical densities) of sections stained with PAS and amylase PAS. This study demonstrated the presence of PSSM in the M. longissimus of showjumpers and dressage horses with back pain and indicates that epaxial muscle biopsy is an option in diagnosing back problems in horses when clinical examination and imaging techniques do not provide a precise diagnosis.
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Herholz, C. P., Gerber, V., Tschudi, P., Straub, R., Imhof, A., & Busato, A. (2003). Use of volumetric capnography to identify pulmonary dysfunction in horses with and without clinically apparent recurrent airway obstruction. Am J Vet Res, 64(3), 338–345.
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether volumetric capnography indices could be used to differentiate between horses without recurrent airway obstruction (RAO) and horses with RAO that were in clinical remission or that had clinically apparent RAO. ANIMALS: 70 adult Swiss Warmblood horses (20 used for pleasure riding and 50 used for dressage or show jumping). PROCEDURE: Horses were allocated to 4 groups on the basis of history, clinical signs, results of endoscopy, and cytologic findings (group 1, 21 healthy horses; group 2, 22 horses with RAO that were in remission; group 3, 16 horses with mild RAO; group 4, 11 horses with exacerbated RAO). Expiratory volume and CO2 curves were recorded by use of a computerized ultrasonic spirometer. Volumetric capnograms were plotted, and derived indices were calculated. RESULTS: Dead-space volume (VD) was calculated by use of the Bohr equation (VD(Bohr)) and for physiologic VD (VD(phys)). Ratios for VD(Bohr) to expiratory tidal volume (VT) and VD(phys) to V(T) as well as an index of effective CO2 elimination were significantly different among groups of horses. Age and use of the horses also significantly affected volumetric capnography indices. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Ratios of VD(Bohr) to VT and VD(phys) to VT as well as an index of effective CO2 elimination were sufficiently sensitive measures to distinguish between healthy horses and horses with RAO in remission. To optimize the ability of volumetric capnography indices to differentiate among horses in heterogeneous populations, it is important to account for effects of age and specific use of the horses.
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Dyson, S., & Murray, R. (2003). Pain associated with the sacroiliac joint region: a clinical study of 74 horses. Equine Vet J, 35(3), 240–245.
Abstract: REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY: There has been no large study of horses with suspected sacroiliac (SI) joint region pain in which the clinical diagnosis has been supported by either abnormal radiopharmaceutical activity in the SI joint region or by periarticular infiltration of local anaesthetic solution. OBJECTIVES: To describe the clinical features of horses with SI joint region pain, to document the age, breed, sex, discipline, size and conformation of affected horses and to compare these with the author's (SD) normal case population and to document the results of infiltration of local anaesthetic solution around the SI joint region. METHODS: Horses were selected for inclusion in the study based upon the exclusion of other causes of lameness or poor performance, together with clinical signs suggestive of SI joint pain and abnormal radiopharmaceutical activity in the SI joint region and/or a positive response to periarticular infiltration of local anaesthetic solution. RESULTS: Sacroiliac joint region disease was identified in 74 horses between November 1997 and March 2002. Dressage and showjumping horses appeared to be at particular risk (P < 0.001). Affected horses were generally slightly older than the normal clinic population (P < 0.0001), taller at the withers (P < 0.0001) and of greater bodyweight (P < 0.01). There was a significant effect of breed (P < 0.001), with a substantially higher proportion of Warmblood horses (51%) in the SI pain group compared to the normal clinic population (29%). There was no correlation between conformation and the presence of SI joint region pain. The tubera sacrale appeared grossly symmetrical in most (95%) horses. Poor development of the epaxial muscles in the thoracolumbar region and asymmetry of the hindquarter musculature were common. Twenty-six horses (35%) showed restricted flexibility of the thoracolumbar region and 10 (16%) had an exaggerated response to pressure applied over the tubera sacrale. Fourteen horses (19%) were reluctant to stand on one hindlimb for prolonged periods. The majority of horses (75%) had a straight hindlimb flight and only 18% moved closely behind or plaited. In all horses restricted hindlimb impulsion was the predominant feature; invariably this was most obvious when the horse was ridden. Stiffness, unwillingness to work on the bit and poor quality canter were common. Sacroiliac joint region pain was seen alone (47%), or in conjunction with thoracolumbar pain (16%), hindlimb lameness (20%), forelimb lameness (7%) or a combination of problems (10%). Seventy-three horses (99%) had abnormalities of the SI joint region identified using nuclear scintigraphy. Infiltration of local anaesthetic solution around the SI joint region produced profound improvement in gait in all 34 horses in which it was performed. CONCLUSIONS AND POTENTIAL RELEVANCE: Careful clinical examination combined with scintigraphic evaluation of the SI joint region and local analgesia can enable a more definitive diagnosis of SI joint region pain than has previously been possible.
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Westerduin, F. E., Lankveld, D. P. K., van der Velden, M. A., Back, W., & Sloet van Oldruitenborgh-Oosterbaan, M. M. (2003). [Splenectomy in a dressage pony: end of sports career?]. Tijdschr Diergeneeskd, 128(13), 406–411.
Abstract: A 14-year-old Arabian cross-bred gelding was referred to the University Clinic because of mild, recurrent signs of colic for 5 days. The pony showed icteric mucous membranes, haemolytic blood, and dark coloured urine. Internal examination did not give a clear diagnosis. Unidentified intra-abdominal strands were found and haemorrhagic abdominocentesis led to the decision to perform an exploratory laparatomy. An extremely enlarged spleen was the sole finding. A splenal biopsy sample was taken and surgery was completed. The pony remained colicky, so the spleen was examined by ultrasonography. After this examination, the tentative diagnosis 'tumour of the spleen' was made and splenectomy was performed. Pathological examination of the spleen revealed splenomegaly caused by infarctions of unknown origin. Eight weeks after surgery, the pony started again in dressage competition. Six months after splenectomy, the pony won the provincial dressage competition.
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Gerber, V., Robinson, N. E., Luethi, S., Marti, E., Wampfler, B., & Straub, R. (2003). Airway inflammation and mucus in two age groups of asymptomatic well-performing sport horses. Equine Vet J, 35(5), 491–495.
Abstract: REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY: Horses housed in conventional stable environments are exposed to high dust loads. Long-term exposure to inhaled dust may lead to subclinical airway disease. HYPOTHESES: Airway inflammation and mucus accumulation are 1) common in asymptomatic well-performing sport horses, 2) increased in older compared to younger individuals and 3) correlated. METHODS: Mucus quantity and quality (endoscopic scoring) and BALF differential cytology were assessed in 13 younger horses (mean age 5 years) and 13 older horses (mean age 15 years), which had no historical or clinical evidence of lower airway disease, were performing well and were housed permanently in a conventional stable environment. RESULTS: 1) Airway inflammation and/or mucus accumulation were very common. All sport horses showed evidence of subclinical inflammatory airway disease (IAD). 2) Older horses, having been exposed for 10 more years to a conventional stable environment, did not show increased subclinical airway inflammation or mucus accumulation. The only differences between the age groups were increased BALF total and lymphocyte cell counts in the younger horses. 3) Mucus quantity and quality scores were not significantly correlated with each other or with BALF neutrophil percentages and absolute numbers. CONCLUSIONS: Although clinically healthy and performing well, all of the examined horses housed in a conventional stable environment showed evidence of IAD. The degree of IAD was not increased in older horses that had not developed clinical signs. POTENTIAL RELEVANCE: The effect of subclinical degrees of IAD on performance in dressage and show jumping should be investigated further to better understand the clinical significance of IAD in sport horses.
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