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Pericarditis in horses: six cases (1982-1986).
W Bernard1, V B Reef, E S Clark
1Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square 19348.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|February 1, 1990
Summary
This study reviewed six horses with pericarditis, finding that prompt antibiotic treatment and pericardial lavage improved outcomes. Surviving horses successfully returned to athletic performance, highlighting effective management strategies for equine pericarditis.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Equine Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Pericarditis in horses can be life-threatening, often associated with bacterial infection.
- Diagnosis relies on clinical signs, cytologic examination of pericardial effusion, and microbial cultures.
- Treatment strategies aim to address infection and inflammation within the pericardial sac.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review cases of equine pericarditis and evaluate treatment outcomes.
- To assess the role of cytologic findings and bacterial identification in diagnosis and prognosis.
- To determine the efficacy of antibiotic therapy and pericardial lavage in managing septic pericarditis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of six horses diagnosed with pericarditis.
- Cytologic examination of pericardial effusion to assess inflammation and identify bacteria.
- Microbiologic culture of pericardial fluid to confirm bacterial infection.
- Treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics and indwelling pericardial catheter for lavage and direct antibiotic administration.
Main Results:
- Cytologic findings varied from acute to chronic inflammation, with neutrophil degeneration noted in all cases.
- Bacteria were identified in two horses via cytology, and one culture was positive.
- Four horses survived the condition, with three returning to athletic performance.
- One horse died from unrelated causes, and another was euthanatized due to the severity of the condition.
Conclusions:
- Septic pericarditis in horses can be managed effectively with broad-spectrum antibiotics and pericardial lavage.
- Cytologic examination provides valuable information on the inflammatory state of the pericardial effusion.
- Successful treatment can lead to the return of surviving horses to their previous athletic function.