Common Diseases and Disorders Flashcards
What are some of the most common equine diseases/disorders?
Colic, gastric ulcers, dental disease, arthritis, laminitis
Define COLIC
Colic is severe pain in the abdomen caused by wind or obstruction in the intestine.
What are some of the causes of colic?
- gas in the intestine
- simple obstructions
- strangulations
- ulceration and neoplasia (abnormal tissue growth)
- grass sickness (disease that damages the nervous system)
- enteritis (inflammation of the small or large intestine)
- peritonitis (inflammation of the peritoneum in the abdomen)
How many different diagnosis’ are there for colic?
107
What gastro-intestinal parameters can be looked at?
- are there gut sounds present?
- is there a passage of faeces?
- rectal examination
- ultrasound
What cardiovascular parameters can be looked at?
- heart rate (normal is 32-40bpm)
- PCV
- membrane colour
- peripheral pulses
How can severity of pain be used to diagnose colic?
Mild pain is often associated with spasmodic colic. This type of colic is caused by a sudden change in diet or routine that may cause serious gut spasms. Responds well to painkillers and has a good prognosis.
Severe or violent pain means it is likely a strangulation. It may become less painful over time however it often indicates the need for surgery.
How does diet impact on colic?
- a high level of concentrates increases the risk for all colic types
- intestinal colic risk increases around the time of dietary change
- failure to adapt to diet change leads to more carbs in the colon. VFA production is altered and altered GI mobility. Gut flora changes and expression of cell proteins too.
What is the treatment for colic?
Immediate management: - remove immediate dangers - restrict further food intake Drug treatment: - painkillers - spasmolytics (to relax the smooth muscle) - stimulation of motility - intravenous/oral fluids - stomach tubing with laxatives
90% of all colic cases respond to medical treatment. 10% that need surgery carry a good prognosis for recovery if the surgery is performed early.
What does the prognosis for colic sufferers depend on?
- severity of colic
- type of colic
- time between onset and treatment
- time between onset and surgery
Define EQUINE GASTRIC ULCERATION SYNDROME
Equine gastric ulcer syndrome is a common cause of colic and decreased performance in horses. Horses form ulcers in the mucosa of the stomach, leading to pain, decreased appetite, weight loss, and behavioral changes.
Also called equine squamous gastric disease or equine glandular gastric disease
What are the grades for non-glandular ulcers?
Grade 0 - stomach lining intact, no reddening
Grade 1 - stomach lining intact but with areas of reddening
Grade 2 - small or multiple ulcers
Grade 3 - large single or multiple ulcers
Grade 4 - extensive ulcers, often merge to give areas of deep ulceration
What are the causes of gastric ulcers?
- diet
- management
- disease
- workload
- behaviour
- stress
Often it is a combination of these factors that cause ulcers.
Define LAMINITIS
Laminitis is an inflammation of the sensitive layers of tissue (laminae) inside the hoof. It is particularly prevalent in spring when sugar rich grass comes through. Causes lameness that varies in severity.
What are the causes of laminitis?
- excessive consumption of fructan rich grass or high levels of concentrates (particularly molasses)
- obesity
- traumatic laminitis is caused by excessive weight on the feet
- toxins released during some diseases e.g. colic, liver disease
