Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Hematuria and leptospiruria in a foal.
- Journal:
- Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
- Year:
- 1993
- Authors:
- Bernard, W V et al.
- Affiliation:
- Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A Thoroughbred foal was born after a normal pregnancy but was referred to a veterinary clinic just six hours after birth because it was weak and unable to stand. During the initial check-up, the foal had a fast heart rate and breathing rate, and a low body temperature. About 30 hours later, the foal started having trouble urinating and was passing red urine, which indicated blood in the urine. Tests showed that the foal had a bacterial infection caused by Leptospira, which was also found in the placenta and in the foal's urine. Both the mare and foal had high levels of antibodies against this bacteria, suggesting they were both affected by the infection. The treatment for this condition was successful.
Abstract
A Thoroughbred foal that was born after 305 days of gestation was referred 6 hours after birth. On initial examination, the foal was alert, but weak and unable to stand. Heart rate was 150 beats/min, respiratory rate was 48 breaths/min, and rectal temperature was 33 C. Leukocytosis was detected (26,000 WBC/microliters). Dysuria and passage of red urine was observed approximately 30 hours after admission. Urine collected by free catch had a 3+ reaction for blood on dipstick analysis. Examination of Warthin Starry-stained sections of allantochorion revealed organisms morphologically characteristic of leptospira spp along the chorion. Results of direct fluorescent antibody tests on section of placenta were positive for Leptospira spp. Direct fluorescent antibody testing identified leptospires in the urine of the foal. Sera from mare and foal were tested for antibodies against Leptospira spp by use of the microscopic agglutination test. High titers were identified in serum from the mare and foal.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8407490/