Related Experiment Videos
Aorto-cardiac fistulas in seven horses
C M Marr1, V B Reef, T J Brazil
1Department of Farm Animal and Equine Medicine and Surgery, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hatfield, UK.
Summary
Aorto-cardiac fistulas are rare equine heart conditions causing acute distress and arrhythmias. Echocardiography is key for diagnosing these aortic fistulas in horses.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Cardiology
- Equine Medicine
Background:
- Aorto-cardiac fistula is a rare cardiovascular condition in horses.
- This condition involves abnormal connections between the aorta and the heart chambers.
Observation:
- Seven horses with aorto-cardiac fistula were studied, including stallions and mares of various breeds.
- Clinical signs included acute distress, exercise intolerance, and arrhythmias like monomorphic ventricular tachycardia.
- A continuous murmur, typically loudest in the right fourth intercostal space, was a common finding.
Findings:
- Echocardiography and post-mortem examinations confirmed aorto-cardiac fistulas, predominantly originating from the right aortic sinus.
- Fistulas extended into cardiac chambers (right ventricle, right atrium, left ventricle) and surrounding myocardium.
- Ruptured aortic aneurysms were noted in two affected horses.
Implications:
- Aorto-cardiac fistula should be considered in equine differential diagnoses for acute distress and specific cardiac murmurs or arrhythmias.
- Echocardiography is the diagnostic imaging modality of choice for identifying aorto-cardiac fistulas and associated cardiac pathology.
- Early diagnosis and understanding of this condition can aid in managing affected horses.