Equine endotoxemia (Maxwell)

Question 1

Where do endotoxins originate from and etiology of endotoxemia

Answer 1

Gram-negative bacteria’s cell walls (salmonella, klebsiella, e. coli)
- horses have a lot in their guts
- die, cell wall falls apart, free-floating in GIT
- only horses with GI lesions where gut wall is compromised develop endotoxemia

Question 2

Signs of endotoxemia

Answer 2

• stuporous, weak
• tachycardia, tachypnea, hyperthermia, hypothermia
• poor pulses, cold extremities
• injected or pink-purple mucous membranes w/ toxic line

Question 3

CBC elements of endotoxemia

Answer 3

leukopenia, neutropenia, left shift (bands), toxic changes

Question 4

5 steps in treating endotoxemia

Answer 4

1. Cardiovascular resuscitation (Shock rate IVF = 45 ml/kg/hour)
2. Treat/eliminating the cause (Adults = caused by GI compromise)
3. Neutralize circulating endotoxin (Hyperimune plasma & serum; Polymixin B)
4. Suppress inflammation (via NSAIDs – flunixin meglumine)
5. Provide Laminitis Prevention (Cryotherapy – ice boots)