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Related Experiment Videos

The ammonia tolerance test in horses.

J S Van den Berg1

  • 1Department of Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Republic of South Africa.

Journal of the South African Veterinary Association
|June 1, 1991
PubMed
Summary

Fasting horses show normal plasma ammonia levels. However, ammonia levels increase after ammonium chloride dosing and when plasma samples are stored at 4°C but not at -20°C.

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Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Plasma ammonia concentration is a critical indicator in equine health.
  • Understanding factors influencing ammonia levels, such as diet and sample storage, is vital for accurate diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess baseline plasma ammonia concentrations in fasted horses.
  • To evaluate the impact of ammonium chloride administration on plasma ammonia levels.
  • To determine the effect of storage temperature on plasma ammonia stability.

Main Methods:

  • Clinically normal horses (n=8) were fasted for 12 hours, and plasma ammonia was measured.
  • Ammonium chloride was administered (0.02 g/kg), and ammonia levels were monitored over 20 minutes.
  • Plasma samples were stored at 4°C and -20°C for up to 24 hours, with ammonia concentrations measured at intervals.

Main Results:

  • Mean fasting plasma ammonia concentration was 17.8 ± 3.8 µmol/L.
  • Ammonium chloride dosing caused a significant increase in plasma ammonia (P < 0.05).
  • Plasma ammonia significantly increased after 12 and 24 hours of storage at 4°C (P < 0.05), but remained stable at -20°C (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

  • Fasting does not significantly alter plasma ammonia levels in horses.
  • Ammonium chloride administration acutely elevates plasma ammonia.
  • Refrigerated storage (4°C) compromises plasma ammonia stability, while freezing (-20°C) preserves it.

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