CHAPTER 38: NEONATAL DISEASES
There are many conditions that can affect a newborn foal. Some conditions have already been reviewed in earlier chapters such as failure of passive transfer & severe combined immune deficiency syndrome, shaker foal syndrome (caused by botulism), juvenile epilepsy, Tyzzer’s disease of the liver, diarrhea, colic & pneumonia.
Neonatal Sepsis
Neonatal sepsis, also known as a systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), occurs when a foal is suffering from an infection or suspected infection. The cause is bacterial, such as Escherichia coli or streptococcus. Transmission is via in utero via the , through the umbilicus, gastrointestinal tract or respiratory secretions. Once the bacteria has gained entry to the body, endotoxins are released which stimulate macrophages to release cytokines & multiple inflammatory enzymes. This results in inflammation, decreased circulation and disseminated intravascular coagulopathy. Foals who fail to receive adequate colostrum which contain all the necessary antibodies, premature or immature foals, those who live in unsanitary environments, or those born to an unhealthy mare are predisposed to sepsis. Mares who suffered dystocia also increases the risk of infection for the foal. Clinical signs & symptoms in the early stage include vague & non-specific signs such as depression, lethargy, recumbency and decreased nursing. As the foal continues to suffer they lose the suckle reflex, become hyperemic, suffer from tachycardia, and become hypoglycemic. In the advanced stages they begin to suffer from septic shock. They are severely depressed, always recumbent, hypovolemic, have cold extremities, a poor capillary refill and suffer from multi organ failure. Diagnosis is through a case history, clinical and lab testing, serology, CSF analysis, ultrasound & xrays. Treatment must be immediate and includes broa spectrum antibiotics such as penicillin, supportive care including IV fluids, plasma transfusion, a nasogastric tube for feeding, oxygen as well as treat for specific organ signs & symptoms. Prognosis is guarded. There is a 50% mortality rate. Survival will depend on the severity and manifestation of the infection.
Neonatal Isoerythrolysis
Neonatal isoerythrolysis is a hypersensitivity reaction that occurs in the foal when the blood types of the mare & stallion .
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