Very Common
Less Common
OTHER DIAGNOSES CONSIDERED
Other conditions or ailments that might also need to be ruled out by a vet.
Diagnosis
Conditions or ailments that are the cause of a problem that you see - your observation.
Your vet may diagnose
Duodenitis-Proximal Jejunitis, DPJ
Synonyms: Proximal Enteritis, Anterior Enteritis
Summary
This is a somewhat mysterious and often life-threatening inflammatory disorder of the most upstream portion of the small intestine. There are a variety of theories as to its cause, including bacterial infection and the production of bacterial toxins.
Severe inflammation shuts down gastrointestinal function and foul smelling fluid (reflux) backs up into the stomach. Signs include colic and depression proceeding quickly to shock. Excessive reflux is usually found on passage of a nasogastric tube.
This disorder, which is usually treated medically, is easily confused with other disorders that require surgery. Due to this, multiple diagnostics may be used to confirm this diagnosis. It may take several days of intensive nursing care and frequent removal of stomach fluid to save these horses.
Severe inflammation shuts down gastrointestinal function and foul smelling fluid (reflux) backs up into the stomach. Signs include colic and depression proceeding quickly to shock. Excessive reflux is usually found on passage of a nasogastric tube.
This disorder, which is usually treated medically, is easily confused with other disorders that require surgery. Due to this, multiple diagnostics may be used to confirm this diagnosis. It may take several days of intensive nursing care and frequent removal of stomach fluid to save these horses.
my vet's role
Diagnostics Used
These are tests that might be helpful to make this diagnosis or further characterize the condition.
Very Common
Treatments May Include
These treatments might be used to help resolve or improve this condition.
Very Common
Less Common
PROGNOSIS AND RELEVANT FACTORS
With prompt diagnosis and treatment, many of these horses do well. However, sometimes it requires a massive effort over several weeks to reestablish function of the small intestine. Laminitis is a fairly common complication.my role
I might observe
You might make these observations when a horse has this condition.
Very Common
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Not Eating, Loss of Appetite, Not Hungry
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Abdominal Pain, Colic Signs
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Depressed, Dull, Sick or Lethargic
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Fever, Rectal Temperature Greater than 101.5 (in Adult)
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Membranes of Mouth, Gums appear Red
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Playing in Water Excessively Without Drinking
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Skin Pinch or Tent at Shoulder Prolonged
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Membranes of Mouth, Gums appear Blue or Purple
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Ate Moldy Hay or Feed, Witnessed
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Gums have Dark Red Line above Teeth
Less Common
Questions To Ask Your Vet:
- What do you think caused this disorder?
- What is the likelihood of recurrence?
Prevention
Maintain excellent husbandry. Maintain access to fresh, clean water at all times. Avoid indiscriminate use of antibiotics.
further reading & resources
Outside Resources
CREDIBLE EQUINE HEALTH INFORMATION ON THE INTERNET