Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Persistent vaginal haemorrhage in five mares caused by varicose veins of the vaginal wall.
- Journal:
- The Veterinary record
- Year:
- 1984
- Authors:
- White, R A et al.
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
Five non-pregnant mares, aged between eight and 20 years, were experiencing persistent bleeding from their vulvas. The bleeding was caused by varicose veins (swollen veins) that had developed ulcers on the vaginal wall. The mares were treated successfully using different methods, including removing part of the tissue, tying off the affected veins, or using heat to stop the bleeding. Additionally, four of the mares showed signs of vulval incompetence, which means their vulva wasn't closing properly, likely due to changes in the area after previous pregnancies. Overall, the treatment worked well for all five mares.
Abstract
Persistent bleeding from the vulva was the only presenting clinical sign in five non-pregnant pluriparous mares varying in age from eight to 20 years. These were two hunter types, one shire, one thoroughbred and one Arab pony. The haemorrhage originated from ulcerated varicose veins present on the dorsal wall of the vagina adjacent to the vestibulovaginal junction. All five mares were successfully treated, by submucosal resection (two), ligation of vessels (two) or diathermy (one). In four mares there was evidence of vulval incompetence caused by depression of the perineum. The importance of this and the role of impaired venous return during and after pregnancy are discussed.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6495576/