[Methods for the evaluation of the intestinal function in the horse (author's transl)]

Diagnostic tests in horses showing signs of gastrointestinal diseases are reviewed. The use of rectal exploration is emphasized, and paracentesis as a diagnostic aid is mentioned. Special attention is given to the absorption tests as they are easy to conduct and give a relative measure of the absorptive capability of the intestinal epithelium. Glucose, D(+)-xylose and carbohydrate digestion-absorption tests are compared, and the D(+)-xylose absorption test is preferred because of the univocal curve of absorption (see Figure 1 and 2). The absorption curve in a horse suffering from alimentary lymphosarcoma (Figure 3) is shown. In assessing gastrointestinal protein loss, utilization of labelled albumin and gammaglobulins is of great importance, and the use of isotopes such as 131I and 51Cr is reviewed. Finally, a more extensive use of alkaline phosphatase as a diagnostic aid is proposed.