Uterus unicornis in two mares

Two American Paint Horses, a 3-year-old nulliparous mare and a 7-year-old primiparous mare, presented for recent infertility and a pre-breeding examination, respectively. Examination of the internal reproductive tract of both mares using transrectal palpation and ultrasonography revealed the presence of the cervix, uterine body, left uterine horn and bilateral ovaries. The right uterine horn could neither be palpated nor imaged. The clinical diagnosis of uterus unicornis in one mare was confirmed at necropsy, which revealed combined aplasia of the right uterine horn and oviduct.     

Incompetent cervix and pneumouterus in a maiden mare

This case report describes an uncommon case of a congenitally incompetent cervix and a resulting pneumouterus in a 5‐year‐old maiden Quarter Horse mare. The mare was presented for artificial insemination at the Clinic for Animal Reproduction, Freie Universität Berlin, Germany. Routine vaginal and rectal examinations revealed a shortened cervix of 3 cm length and a dilated uterus filled with a considerable amount of air. During ultrasonographic examination, ovaries of normal size with regular cyclic activity were detected. Chromosomal analysis could not confirm any genetic anomalies such as an expected XO karyotype. The mare was excluded from breeding due to its anatomical constitution.     

Polyarthritis secondary to septic thrombophlebitis in an Arabian mare

A 3‐year‐old Arabian mare presented with diarrhoea and depression. During hospitalisation, the mare developed septic thrombophlebitis associated with a jugular catheter. One week later, she developed secondary bilateral tarsocrural joint septic arthritis. Following surgical intervention and intensive medical therapy, the mare recovered successfully. The case highlights an unusual and previously unreported complication of septic thrombophlebitis.     

Equine nonneoplastic abnormal ovary in a draft mare with high serum anti-Müllerian hormone: a case study

We performed a standing hand-assisted laparoscopic ovariectomy in a draft mare that presented with high serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) level and had an enlarged single cystic ovary. Histopathological examination revealed no tumor cell proliferation in the ovary, but the presence of a large ovarian cyst was confirmed. In the diagnosis of abnormal ovaries in mares, a comprehensive assessment should be performed, including the monitoring of ovarian morphology and biomarkers over time, to determine the disease prognosis and treatment plan. The case of this mare with a nonneoplastic abnormal ovary and increased serum AMH level was rare. We suggest that standing hand-assisted laparoscopic ovariectomy is useful for the removal of large ovaries in draft mares.     

Bilateral distal radial epiphysectomy and pancarpal arthrodesis for correction of complex carpal deformities in an American Miniature horse

A 9‐day‐old American Miniature horse was referred for evaluation and treatment of congenital bilateral carpal deformities. Clinical examination revealed a combination of flexural, angular and rotational deformities affecting both carpi. Radiographic evaluation of both forelimbs revealed malformation of the distal radial epiphysis accompanied by flexural contracture and external rotation of the limb distal to the antebrachial carpal joint. Conservative therapy was attempted with splints and bandages and failed to result in improvement. Surgical intervention was elected and a bilateral distal radial epiphysectomy and pancarpal arthrodesis performed. Fourteen months later the mare was turned out to pasture and ambulating well.     

How to perform ovariectomy through a colpotomy

Bilateral ovariectomy of mares is performed most commonly to eliminate or diminish unwanted behaviour, create a teaser mare, sterilise a mare so that it can be registered in its breed association, or produce a recipient mare for embryo transfer. A practical technique of bilateral ovariectomy that can be easily performed without the mare sedated and without a surgical facility is ovariectomy through a colpotomy. Ovariectomy through a colpotomy is less expensive than ovariectomy using other approaches because it is performed with the mare standing, can be performed quickly and the only specialised instrument required is a chain écraseur. Complications of ovariectomy performed through a colpotomy are uncommon when the mare is correctly prepared for the procedure and when proper precautions are taken during and after the procedure.     

Luteoma in two mares treated by ovariectomy

A 15-year-old Paint mare (Case 1) and a 15-year-old Arabian mare (Case 2) were presented for aggressive and undesired behaviour. Reproductive evaluation revealed, initially, an enlarged ovary with a smaller/normal sized contralateral ovary in each case. Granulosa cell tumour (GCT) panel testing revealed elevated inhibin B in both cases and elevated anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels only in Case 1 determined from currently established reference ranges. Based on a presumptive diagnosis of GCT, bilateral standing ovariectomy was elected for both mares. In each case neoplastic tissue consistent with luteoma was detected only on histological examination in the smaller/normal sized left ovary; the right ovary appearing normal. Long-term follow-up was performed 1 year and 5 years post-operatively by telephone. The owners were satisfied with the outcome and each patient demonstrated resolution of aggressive stallion-like behaviour. Each case returned to the owners' intended use. In conclusion, luteoma should be considered as a differential diagnosis for ovarian neoplasms in horses related to behavioural abnormalities, even in normal-sized ovaries.     

Standing Laparoscopic Ovariectomy Technique with Intraabdominal Dissection for Removal of Large Pathologic Ovaries in Mares

Objective: To describe a standing laparoscopic ovariectomy technique with intraabdominal ovarian dissection inside a specimen retrieval bag for removal of large pathologic ovaries through small incisions. Study Design: Case series. Animals: Mares (n=43) aged 2–21 years and weighing 380–680 kg. Methods: Unilateral laparoscopic ovariectomy was performed on 43 standing sedated mares. Ovaries were approached via 3 portal sites, 2 in the paralumbar fossa and a 3rd between the 17th and 18th ribs on the ipsilateral side. Ovaries were dissected free using either a LiNA Tripol‐bipolar laparoscopic forceps or a Ligasure™ Vessel Sealing Device and removed by enlarging the proximal portal site ventrally using a grid technique. Use of a plastic specimen retrieval bag and cannula suction device facilitated intraabdominal dissection of very large ovaries into 2 or more pieces, before removal through small incisions. Results: Regardless of size, all ovaries were removed successfully through small incisions (range, 5–10 cm), with no major complications and an excellent cosmetic result. All sport horses returned to previous levels of work or higher, with 93% of breeding mares successfully bred in the 1st season after surgery. Conclusions: Large pathologic ovaries can be easily and safely removed by standing laparoscopic ovariectomy on the mare. Clinical Relevance: Standing laparoscopic ovariectomy combined with a small flank incision is a safe and highly effective technique for removal of large pathologic ovaries in the mare, negating the requirement for general anesthesia or large incisions.     

Treatment of an 18‐year‐old mare for bilateral,branchial remnant cysts

This report describes the treatment of an aged mare for bilateral, branchial remnant cysts by marsupialisation and sclerotherapy the cysts. Treatment to resolve the cysts was prolonged, but the mare had no long‐term complications.     

Gross and microscopic observations of ovarian abnormalities from five Burchell's zebra, Equus Burchelli antiquorum, Smith 1841.

Five pair of zebra ovaries were submitted to the Onderstepoort Veterinary Research Institute for examination because of unusual uni- and/or bilateral gross appearances. Microscopic findings revealed an accessory spleen encapsulated by the ovarian peritoneum, a case of tubo-ovarian cysts, one example of ovarian aplasia, an example of germinal inclusion cysts and an abnormal follicular haemorrhage related to pressure necrosis of a nearby corpus luteum. Similarities to the ovary of the domestic mare were also seen and some are briefly described.     

Standing hand-assisted laparoscopic ovariectomy in 65 mares

Objective: To review the efficacy and safety of unilateral ovariectomy by use of a standing hand‐assisted laparoscopic approach and evaluate the effect of ovary size on posttransection hemorrhage after application of a linear stapling device. Study Design: Case series. Animals: Horses (n=65) aged 2–20 years. Methods: Medical records of mares that had ovariectomy performed by use of a standing hand‐assisted laparoscopic approach were reviewed. Data retrieved were signalment, ovary removed (left, right), ovarian size, ovarian pathology, intraoperative and postoperative complications, and length of hospitalization. Results: Mean ovarian diameter was 17 cm. Histopathology (52 mares) confirmed 41 granulosa cell tumors (79%), 8 ovarian cysts (15%), 1 teratoma (2%), and 2 ovaries (4%) without abnormalities. Hemorrhage was observed laparoscopically in 16 mares after transection of the mesovarium. Complications encountered during surgery included 1 mare collapsing in the stocks and 1 mare that hemorrhaged excessively from the incision. Postoperative complications included 2 cases of mild colic. Overall complication rate was 6%. Conclusions: All attempts to remove the target ovary were successful. The approach is safe for the mare, as complications encountered were similar to those recently reported for other approaches.     

Detection of clade 2 equine influenza virus in an adult horse recently imported to the USA

A 4‐year‐old Warmblood mare presented to the William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California at Davis with bilateral mucoid nasal discharge and pyrexia. The mare had recently been imported from Germany, arriving at a quarantine holding facility 72 h prior to presentation. Based on clinical presentation and culture results of tracheal fluid, the mare was diagnosed with bacterial bronchopneumonia secondary to equine influenza. The equine influenza virus (EIV) identified in the imported mare displayed 99.1% nucleotide homology of the HA1 gene to the prototype Florida sublineage clade 2 isolate A/equine/Richmond/1/2007 (H3N8). This case illustrates the risk of introducing a clade 2 EIV in North America.     

Granulosa cell tumour: An interesting case in a pregnant mare

This report describes the successful management of a pregnant 14‐year‐old seven‐eighths Thoroughbred mare with an ovarian granulosa cell tumour. The mare initially presented with unilateral ovarian enlargement whilst being managed for artificial insemination, demonstrating normal ovarian function with ovulation from the contralateral ovary leading to conception. The mare subsequently re‐presented with stallion‐like behaviour at 3.5 months gestation and ovarian suppression was evident. The mare maintained her pregnancy and delivered a live colt foal at term. Ovariectomy was performed 3 months post foaling and the mare regained cyclic activity 9 months post surgery. The mare then conceived and became pregnant once more. The diagnostic and therapeutic challenges during pregnancy are discussed.     

Hormonal Stimulation in a Gonadal Dysgenesis Mare

The present case report aimed to determine the responsiveness of the endometrium and the ovaries of an X0 mare after hormonal treatment. On transrectal palpation, the uterus was flaccid and smaller than normal, and the ovaries were small and smooth. The endometrium had normal histological architecture, with an atrophic glandular epithelium. A karyotype evaluation was performed, and 70 cells presented 63 chromosomes, lacking one sex chromosome. Circulating hormonal levels of total estrogens were 43.93 pg/mL; progesterone 0.01 ng/mL; testosterone 48 pg/mL; FSH 30.3 ng/mL; and LH 1.71 ng/mL. Immunohistochemistry tests showed the presence of estrogens and progesterone receptors in the endometrial samples of the X0 mare. 17β estradiol was administrated on three consecutive days and long-action progesterone on the fourth day. After hormonal stimulation, the mare showed changes in endometrial ultrasonography and histology. After treatment with estradiol, uterine edema was noted, and after progesterone, a reduction in edema was observed. At the request of the owner, no further treatment or follow-up occurred. This report showed that the endometrium is functional, but the ovaries did not change macroscopically under hormonal therapy.     

Diabetes mellitus associated with bilateral granulosa cell tumors in a mare

Both ovaries in a 10-year-old American Saddle Horse mare were determined to be larger than normal. The mare had problems with infertility during the preceding 3 years. Clinical evaluation revealed that the mare was polyuric, polydypsic, hyperinsulinemic, and hyperglycemic, and had reduced tolerance to exogenous glucose. Bilateral granulosa cell tumors were identified on histologic examination of the ovaries. The precise mechanism for the secondary diabetes mellitus was not determined; however, the cause was suspected to be a result of the synthesis and release of a hormonal substance by the tumor that affected carbohydrate metabolism and resulted in decreased peripheral sensitivity to insulin.     

Malignant fibrous histiocytoma of the mammary gland in a mare

Mammary tumours are uncommon in mares. Sarcomas of the breast account for less than 1% of all human primary malignancies and, among these types of tumours, malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) is very rare. This report describes a 6‐year‐old uniparous Paint mare that was presented for investigation of right mammary gland enlargement of 3 weeks' duration. The clinical and histopathological findings in this mare with malignant fibrous histiocytoma of the mammary gland as well as complications of bilateral mastectomy are detailed. At one year follow‐up there were no clinical signs of recurrence.     

Hand‐assisted laparoscopic adhesiolysis of extensive small intestinal adhesions in a mare after breeding injury

In this article we report the course of disease in a mare following severe vaginal injury during natural cover. Although the genital injury healed completely, the mare developed extensive intra‐abdominal intestinal adhesions causing complete small intestinal obstruction 2 years after the incident. The adhesion was not accessible during initial emergency laparotomy and a standing, hand‐assisted laparoscopic adhesiolysis and jejuno‐jejunal end‐to‐end anastomosis were subsequently performed. The mare was subjected to euthanasia 10 weeks after surgery due to recurrence of abdominal pain. The pertaining literature is discussed in regards to this case.     

Laparoscopic ovariectomy in the standing mare

An eleven year old warmblood mare was referred to Dierenkliniek Emmeloord because of recurrent cyclic behavioral problems. A standing bilateral laparoscopic ovariectomy was performed. Due to this minimal invasive technique a quick return to training was possible.     

Uterine prolapse in a mare leading to metritis,systemic inflammatory response syndrome,septic shock and death

This Case Report describes severe complications associated with uterine prolapse in a mare. A 6‐year‐old Trakehner mare was examined for depression, moderate pain and vaginal discharge 3 days after correction of a uterine prolapse. The clinical examination and haematology revealed that the mare had an infection with systemic inflammatory response syndrome and shock. Due to the uncontrollable, persistent pain, an exploratory celiotomy was performed which revealed severe metritis. During anaesthesia, the mare developed severe cardiovascular compromise and died in recovery. In previously reported cases of uterine prolapse in the mare, the authors warn of uterine injury, broad ligament haemorrhage, metritis, endotoxaemia and laminitis but often have a successful outcome with conventional therapy. This case describes a mare that developed severe complications and death after uterine prolapse. Mares with uterine prolapse require appropriate treatment and vigilant monitoring post treatment to prevent life threatening complications.     

Multicentric T‐cell lymphoma presenting as inferior palpebral swelling in a Standardbred mare

A 6‐year‐old Standardbred mare that presented with bilateral palpebral swelling and a left corneal ulcer was diagnosed with a multicentric T‐cell lymphoma. Other clinical findings included submandibular lymphadenopathy and oedema, pharyngeal oedema and rhinitis. Prior to euthanasia the horse developed keratomalacia, the onset of which was coincidental with the use of high doses of topical and systemic corticosteroids. Although an unusual presentation, palpebral swelling should be considered as a clinical sign of lymphoma.