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Capillary permeability to endogenous macromolecules in the equine digit
D Allen1, R J Korthuis, E S Clark
1Department of Large Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens 30602.
American Journal of Veterinary Research
|September 1, 1988
Summary
The equine digit microvasculature is relatively permeable, allowing significant macromolecule leakage. This study quantified microvascular permeability using the osmotic reflection coefficient in horse digits.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Veterinary Medicine
- Microcirculation Research
Background:
- Understanding microvascular permeability is crucial for diagnosing and treating edema.
- The equine digit's unique structure presents specific challenges for microcirculation studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the microvascular permeability characteristics in the digits of adult horses.
- To determine the osmotic reflection coefficient of the equine digit microvasculature.
Main Methods:
- Isolated capillaries and established an extracorporeal perfusion circuit for the digit.
- Cannulated a lymphatic vessel and increased venous pressure stepwise.
- Measured lymph flow, lymph protein concentration (Cl), and plasma protein concentration (Cp) at steady state.
Main Results:
- Determined lymph-to-plasma protein concentration ratios (Cl/Cp) and oncotic pressures.
- Calculated the osmotic reflection coefficient as 1--Cl/Cp.
- The osmotic reflection coefficient for the equine digit was 0.67, indicating relative permeability.
Conclusions:
- The microvasculature of the equine digit is relatively permeable.
- The equine digit vasculature can retain only 67% of endogenous macromolecules.
- Findings suggest a potential for increased fluid accumulation in the equine digit.