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Cranial thoracic masses in the horse: a sequel to pleuropneumonia
T D Byars1, C M Dainis, K L Seltzer
1Hagyard-Davidson-McGee Associates P.S.C., Lexington, Kentucky 40511.
Abstract:
The formation of cranial thoracic masses (CTM) as a sequel to infectious pleuropneumonia is described. Using ultrasound, masses were diagnosed subjectively as abscesses or loculations. Eight of 99 cases with pleuropneumonia had CTM. Clinical signs associated with the presence of a CTM included increased heart rate, jugular distention, forelimb 'pointing' and caudal displacement of the heart. Techniques used for diagnostic ultrasonographic examination of the cranial thorax are described. Five of the eight horses with CTM responded to conservative medical management; the other three required percutaneous drainage of the mass to relieve worsening signs of cardiac decompensation. Improvements in cardiovascular parameters were evident within 12 h of drainage. The indications for and limitations of invasive drainage of cranial thoracic masses are discussed.
Insights
Infectious pleuropneumonia can lead to cranial thoracic masses (CTM) in horses. Ultrasound aids diagnosis, and while medical management is often effective, some cases require percutaneous drainage for cardiac decompensation.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Equine Health
Background:
- Infectious pleuropneumonia is a significant respiratory disease in horses.
- Cranial thoracic masses (CTM) can develop as a complication of pleuropneumonia.
- Early diagnosis and management of CTM are crucial for patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the formation and ultrasonographic diagnosis of CTM in horses following pleuropneumonia.
- To identify clinical signs associated with CTM.
- To evaluate the efficacy of medical management and percutaneous drainage for CTM.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series of 99 horses with pleuropneumonia.
- Ultrasonographic examination of the cranial thorax for mass identification and characterization.
- Assessment of clinical signs and response to treatment (medical management vs. percutaneous drainage).
Main Results:
- Eight out of 99 horses (8.1%) developed CTM.
- Clinical signs included increased heart rate, jugular distention, forelimb pointing, and cardiac displacement.
- Five horses improved with medical management; three required percutaneous drainage due to cardiac decompensation, showing rapid cardiovascular improvement.
Conclusions:
- Ultrasonography is valuable for diagnosing CTM secondary to pleuropneumonia.
- CTM present with specific clinical signs indicating potential cardiac compromise.
- Percutaneous drainage is an effective intervention for CTM causing cardiac decompensation, with prompt positive effects on cardiovascular parameters.