Indices of renal function: reference values in normal horses

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Equine Physiology
• Renal Function Studies

Background:

• Clinical evaluation of renal function in horses relies on various blood and urine parameters.
• Previous studies established normal ranges for equine blood biochemical values.
• Understanding urine concentration and electrolyte excretion variability is crucial for accurate renal assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish reference values for renal function parameters in normal adult horses.
• To compare blood and urine biochemical profiles in healthy horses undergoing routine investigations.
• To investigate the variability of urine concentration and electrolyte excretion in response to environmental and management factors.

Main Methods:

• Simultaneous collection of urine and blood samples from normal adult horses.
• Analysis of blood biochemical values and urine parameters, including concentration and electrolytes.
• Calculation of percent creatinine clearance ratios for specific electrolytes like potassium.

Main Results:

• Equine blood biochemical values aligned with previously reported findings, showing well-defined normal ranges.
• Urine concentration and electrolyte excretion parameters exhibited wide variations in healthy horses.
• Percent creatinine clearance ratios for potassium were found to be lower than previously reported values for normal horses.

Conclusions:

• The healthy equine kidney demonstrates significant adaptability in urine composition based on environment and management.
• Interpretation of urine concentration and electrolyte excretion requires consideration of a broad range of normal values.
• Management conditions are a critical factor in the rational interpretation of equine renal function tests.