Cholelithiasis in horses: ten cases (1982-1986).
Ten horses with clinical signs consistent with cholelithiasis were evaluated. Fever, icterus, mild intermittent colic, and weight loss were reported. Clinical laboratory abnormalities included leukocytosis, hyper-proteinemia, and hyperfibrinogenemia. Gamma glutamyltransferase and liver isoenzyme of lactate dehydrogenase activities also were high. Choleliths were observed via ultrasonography of the liver in 5 of the 8 horses evaluated, and increased echogenicity of the hepatic parenchyma and dilated bile ducts were observed in all horses. Seven horses were treated medically, 5 of which died or were euthanatized. Three horses were treated surgically, of which only 1 survived. Cholelith composition varied, but cholesterol, calcium bilirubinate, and mixed bile pigments were most commonly observed.
Johnston
J K
JK
Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square 19348.
Divers
T J
TJ
Reef
V B
VB
Acland
H
H
D000818:Animals; D002769:Cholelithiasis / Q000097:blood / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology / Q000662:veterinary*; D006734:Horse Diseases / Q000097:blood / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D006736:Horses; D008099:Liver / Q000473:pathology; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D014463:Ultrasonography / Q000662:veterinary