Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Horse diarrhea and dehydration - what is colitis "X"?
By Schiefer, H B·Published in The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne·1981·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Equine colitis "X", still an enigma?
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
Colitis "X" is a serious condition that can affect horses, causing symptoms like dehydration, imbalances in body salts, and signs that resemble shock. When examined, the intestines show damage and a lot of bacteria in the affected areas. Recent studies suggest that a specific type of bacteria called Clostridium perfringens, Type A, might be involved, but it can only be found in the early stages of the illness. A diet high in protein and low in fiber may help these bacteria grow. While the signs of the disease are quite specific, veterinarians also need to rule out other possible issues like intestinal blockages, infections like salmonella, poisoning from heavy metals, or blood vessel problems caused by parasites.
Abstract
Colitis "X" is a sporadic diarrheal disease of horses with clinical signs of dehydration, electrolyte imbalances and "shock"-like features. Macroscopic and microscopic findings include signs of disseminated intravascular coagulation, necrosis of colonic mucosa and presence of large numbers of bacteria in the devitalized parts of the intestine. Recently published work suggests that the causative agent may be Clostridium perfringens, Type A, but the bacteria are recoverable only in the preliminary stages of the disease. Excess protein and lack of cellulose content in the diet is thought to be the trigger for the multiplication of the clostridial organisms. The pathological findings are pathognomonic, but clinically, a number of differential diagnoses have to be considered, such as intestinal accidents, salmonellosis, heavy metal intoxication and occlusive verminous arteritis.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6265055/