Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Diagnosis of avian tuberculosis in a horse by use of liver biopsy.
- Journal:
- Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
- Year:
- 1989
- Authors:
- Lofstedt, J & Jakowski, R M
- Affiliation:
- Department of Medicine · United States
Plain-English summary
A 15-month-old Appaloosa colt was experiencing a fever, weight loss, diarrhea, and swelling in his legs. Blood tests showed he was anemic, had low protein levels, and high levels of certain antibodies. The tests also indicated that his liver enzymes were elevated. A biopsy of his liver suggested that he might have tuberculosis, which is an infection that can affect various animals. The study suggests that a liver biopsy can be a helpful test if a horse is suspected of having avian tuberculosis or a related condition, especially when liver enzyme levels are high.
Abstract
A 15-month-old Appaloosa colt had pyrexia, weight loss, diarrhea, and dependent edema. Abnormal laboratory findings included anemia, hypoalbuminemia, and hyperglobulinemia. Activities of liver-specific enzymes in this colt were high. Analysis of a liver biopsy specimen resulted in a presumptive diagnosis of tuberculosis. We recommend that liver biopsy be used as a diagnostic procedure if the differential diagnosis in a horse includes avian tuberculosis or granulomatous enteritis, especially if serum activities of liver-specific enzymes are high.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2917893/