Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
An unusual case of generalized soft-tissue mineralization in a suckling foal.
- Journal:
- Veterinary pathology
- Year:
- 2006
- Authors:
- Estepa, J C et al.
- Affiliation:
- Department Anatomia y Anatomia Patologica Comparadas · Spain
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
This case involves a 3-week-old foal from a group of Andalusian horses that developed serious soft-tissue mineralization, which is when tissues in the body start to harden due to mineral deposits. The problem was linked to a poor diet that had too little calcium and too much phosphorus, leading to a condition called secondary hyperparathyroidism, where the body produces too much parathyroid hormone. The foal showed signs of being unwell, such as not growing well, painful joints, limping, and a stiff way of walking. Sadly, two foals died, and a thorough examination of one revealed significant mineral buildup in the walls of blood vessels and lungs. Fortunately, after changing the diet, the health issues in the remaining mares and foals improved within four weeks.
Abstract
An atypical case of severe soft-tissue mineralization in a 3-week-old foal from a herd of Andalusian horses is described. The herd clinical history and the laboratory findings were compatible with a diagnosis of secondary hyperparathyroidism due to a mineral imbalance in the diet (low calcium and high phosphorus intake). Mares showed a marked increase in serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) approximately 10 times normal levels. Serum PTH was marginally elevated in foals. Clinical signs (unthriftiness, painful joints, lameness in one or more limbs, and stiff gait) were more pronounced in foals than in mares. Two foals died and necropsy of one of them revealed extensive soft-tissue mineralization of arterial walls and pulmonary parenchyma. Clinical signs in mares and foals resolved by 4 weeks after diet adjustment.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16407490/