Urolithiasis in a four-months-old Holstein colt

Abstract

A four-months-old equine Holstein colt was presented with acute signs of respiratory disease. Following diagnostic evaluation, an initial diagnosis of pneumonia was made and treatment with broad-spectrum antimicrobials, intravenous fluid therapy, polymyxin B, clenbuterol, and dembrexine was initiated. The colt's condition deteriorated under therapy and repeat ultrasonographic evaluation revealed an accumulation of free fluid in the abdomen. On abdominoscentesis urine was obtained. Urethral endoscopy revealed hyperemic urethral mucosa and a hard, irregular, greyish structure 35 cm into the urethra. Surgery under general anesthesia was attempted and an area of necrotic tissue was found on the ventral aspect of the bladder. A spiculated oval stone was exteriorized but the defect could not be repaired as it was not accessible. The colt was euthanized. Urolith analysis revealed a composition of 90 % tripelphosphate (struvite) and 8.2 % apatite (rich in calcium). This case emphasizes the potential of obstructing urinary disease in very young animals. Knowledge of the potential presence of significant uroliths in suckling foals may help guide diagnostic evaluation and treatment and potentially allow for early intervention to prevent a fatal outcome. Case historyA four-months-old equine Holstein colt was presented for further investigation of pyrexia. The barn manager reported that the foal was found to be more quiet than usual with a rectal temperature of 40.2 °C. The attending veterinarian recommended referral. The foal was born and housed in a breeding facility with a total of 35 mares and their foals. The horses were housed in group-stalls with daily turnout on pasture. The mares were fed a commercial concentrate and grass hay ad libitum as well as a mineral supplement. Reportedly, no other horses on the premises were affected.