Cholelithiasis in horses: ten cases (1982-1986)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Equine Internal Medicine
• Hepatology

Background:

• Cholelithiasis, or gallstones, is a recognized condition in horses.
• Clinical signs can be nonspecific, making diagnosis challenging.
• Liver dysfunction is a common sequela.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, and outcomes of horses with cholelithiasis.
• To evaluate the efficacy of medical and surgical treatments.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective evaluation of ten horses with suspected cholelithiasis.
• Clinical examination, laboratory analysis (including liver enzymes), and ultrasonography were performed.
• Treatment strategies (medical and surgical) and outcomes were recorded.

Main Results:

• Common signs included fever, icterus, colic, and weight loss.
• Laboratory findings revealed leukocytosis, hyperproteinemia, and elevated liver enzymes.
• Ultrasonography identified choleliths in 5/8 horses, with hepatic parenchyma changes and bile duct dilation in all.
• Medical treatment had a high mortality rate (5/7), while surgical treatment had a 33% survival rate (1/3).
• Common cholelith compositions included cholesterol, calcium bilirubinate, and mixed bile pigments.

Conclusions:

• Cholelithiasis in horses is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.
• Diagnostic imaging, particularly ultrasonography, is valuable for identifying gallstones and liver changes.
• Treatment outcomes are generally poor, highlighting the need for further research into effective management strategies.