Criollo Horses Research Articles

2D Kinematic Analysis of the Esbarrada and Volta Sobre Patas Manoeuvres of Criollo Breed Horses Competing in Freio de Ouro

The esbarrada and volta sobre patas manoeuvres are critical in Criollo horse equestrian activities, yet their kinematics remain largely unexplored. This observational study aimed to kinematically describe the manoeuvres in Criollo breed horses and explore the relationship between static goniometry and dynamics. A 2D kinematic analysis was conducted on 31 Criollo horses performing the manoeuvres using high-speed cameras. Joint angles were measured using static goniometry and analysed in relation to dynamic performance. The esbarrada covered a distance of 4.28 ± 0.99 m in 1.15 ± 0.11 s at a velocity of 3.77 ± 0.55 m/s. Joint angles showed a mean fetlock extension of 75.4° ± 5.3° and hock flexion of 43.2° ± 4.1°. In the volta sobre patas, significant differences were found in turn duration (first: 0.96 ± 0.07 s, second: 1.12 ± 0.09 s, p = 0.03) and thoracic limb suspension (first: 0.23 ± 0.02 s, second: 0.28 ± 0.03 s, p = 0.02). Static goniometry indicated that limb conformation did not significantly correlate with protraction angles during the esbarrada (p = 0.27). The volta sobre patas demonstrated prolonged duration and increased thoracic limb suspension in the second turn. Also, the findings suggest that static conformation does not predict dynamic limb movement during the esbarrada.

Featuring long-loop tournaments: breeding and training profiles and blood changes in criollo horses before and after exercise.

Long-loop rodeo is a major competition for Criollo horses. We aimed to feature long-loop tournaments and to assess the profiles of competing horses. The animals (n = 49) were registered, and their body mass/scores, information about breeding, feeding, and training management, loaded weight, and tournament track (n = 11) were collected; speeds reached were estimated. Heart and respiratory rates of horses (n = 27) were collected before the tournament, on the final day of the event, and 18-24 h after the end of the tournament. Blood samples were collected from the animals at the same time. Blood count (n = 19) and biochemical profile (n = 28) were conducted based on total proteins, albumin, globulin, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, urea, creatinine, glucose, triglycerides, and cholesterol. Data were assessed using analysis of variance in association with Tukey's test (P ≤0.05) and Spearman's correlation (P ≤0.05). Most horses were bred in a semi-stable system, fed roughage and concentrate, and subjected to non-standardized training. The tournament comprised a high-intensity and short-duration exercise with a mean speed of 6.44 m/s, during which the horses carried 25.59% of their body weight on their backs. Clinical evaluations and hematological and biochemical assessments in this study showed physiological changes caused by exercise.

Assessing muscle function and oxidative profile in criollo horses participating in long loop rodeo before and after exercise

Assessing muscle function and oxidative profile in criollo horses participating in long loop rodeo before and after exercise

Metabolic profile and body condition score of Crioulo horses finalists in the Freio de Ouro competition

The aim of this study was to assess the body condition score (BCS) and metabolic profile of finalists in the Freio de Ouro competition, stratified by sex. This study examined 84 Crioulo horses, comprising 43 non-pregnant mares and 41 stallions. Morphometric measurements, including BCS, cresty neck score (CNS), neck and heart girth, and assessments of fat depth at the neck and at the tail base, were conducted. Additional derived measurements such as the percentage of body fat (%BF), body mass index (BMI), fat mass (FM), fat-free mass (FFM), heart girth:height ratio (HG:HW), and neck circumference:height ratio (NC:HW) were calculated. A subgroup of 53 animals was selected for the evaluation of metabolic parameters, including triglycerides, cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), and adiponectin.In terms of BCS, 21% of participants were classified as overweight, with 49% having CNS≥3. Females exhibited greater fat deposition at the tail base and neck, along with higher %BF, FM, and HG:HW ratio, and lower NC:HWcompared to males. Among metabolic variables, females showed higher concentrations of LDH, LDL, CK, and lower concentrations of adiponectin than males. No differences were observed in morphometric measurements between participants that qualified for the final day of the competition and those which were disqualified. The study revealed that despite the rigorous physical demands and preparation required for the Freio de Ouro competition, a percentage of participants were overweight, displaying increased regional fat deposition in the neck. Although no metabolic changes related to increased adiposity were identified, the findings indicate a predisposition to the development of metabolic alterations. Additionally, females exhibited a greater accumulation of fat than males.

The influence of foreign lineages in the genetic component of reproductive traits in Criollo Argentino mares: A 30-year study

The Criollo horse is the most important equine breed in Argentina. These horses are characterized by their strength, resistance, and increased fertility even at old ages, and they are also associated with Argentine tradition and livestock heritage. However, over the last 70 years, the Criollo Argentino breed has been influenced by other South American Criollo horses from Brazil, Uruguay, or Chile. In this study, we aimed to determine the genetic influence of foreign individuals on the reproductive performance of Criollo Argentino mares. To achieve this, we analyzed a large dataset including pedigree records of nearly 212,000 individuals. For the analysis, the individuals were organised into clusters based on their genetic origin (foreign or native Criollos). We then performed a comprehensive genetic characterization of each group, as well as an estimation of the estimated breeding values (EBVs), heritabilities, and genetic correlations for the three traits, using a multi-trait mixed model. Our results demonstrate a positive trend toward the introgression of foreign breeding lineages in the Criollo Argentino population. However, we also quantified a low-to-moderate genetic influence on all the fertility traits analysed, and the absence of any negative effect associated with inbreeding. Despite the fact that the genetic origin produced certain differences between foreign and native individuals in terms of fertility at the beginning of the study, the use of foreign lineages did not significantly change the fertility of the Criollo Argentino mares. To our knowledge, this is the first study analysing the fertility of Criollo horses from a genetic point of view.

Preliminary study of heart rate variability in Criollo horses for the elucidation of their neurophysiological characteristics of autonomic nerve function.

The Criollo is an Argentine horse breed with a calm temperament. Although its temperament is considered to be related to its neurophysiological characteristics, the details of this are unknown. Therefore, we analyzed the heart rate variability in Criollos as a preliminary study to deepen the neurophysiological understanding of their autonomic function. Electrocardiograms were recorded from Criollos and Thoroughbreds, and the power spectrum of heart rate variability was analyzed. Compared with Thoroughbreds, Criollos showed (i) a significantly higher high-frequency component, which is an index of parasympathetic nerve activity, and (ii) tendency toward a lower ratio of low- to high-frequency power, which is an index of the autonomic balance. These results revealed that parasympathetic nerves might be more active in Criollos compared with Thoroughbreds.

Efeitos de raça, idade e gênero sobre o plasma rico em plaquetas em equinos e correlação da contagem plaquetária com seu aspecto físico

ABSTRACT Platelet rich plasma samples from 50 healthy horses of five different breeds (Thoroughbreds - TB, Brazilian Criollo Horses - BCH, Brazilian Sport Horses - BSH, Miniature Horses - MH and Crossbred Horses - CB), were investigated as to breed, age, and gender effect for platelet concentration. Moreover, a score for physical analysis was established to correlate PRP physical aspect with platelet count. Platelet count was performed by an automatic hematology analyzer and by manual count. PRP physical analysis was based on color, aspect, and capacity to separate blood components. MH showed significant higher platelet concentration than BSH (p<0.05), while the other breed comparisons showed no significant difference. There was no significant difference for gender but there was a weak correlation of age with PRP platelet concentrations (rs = -0.24). Most of the PRP presented yellow color, the separation of blood components showed no correlation, but the aspect showed a moderate correlation (rs = 0.30) with platelet count. Results suggest that PRP platelet concentration can be influenced by intrinsic factors such as breed. Additionally, the analysis of PRP aspect can help to evaluate the quality of the product when there is no access to platelet counts.

Ovarian and Uterine Dynamics During the Estrous Cycle in Criollo Breed Mares

After having been brought to America 400 years ago, the Criollo horse reproduced freely for centuries in the southern part of the American continent. Roughness, resistance, and endurance are typical characteristics of this breed of horses. Although the natural selection that occurred over the centuries may have positively influenced the fertility and longevity of this breed, information regarding ovarian function and other reproductive aspects of Criollo breed mares under natural or controlled management conditions is scarce. The objectives of the present study were to (1) characterize the follicular dynamics of Criollo breed mares, (2) characterize growth and regression of the corpus luteum, and (3) study the cervical and uterine tone and ultrasonographic echotexture changes during two consecutive estrous cycles. In this study, 26 interovulatory intervals (IOI) were evaluated in 13 mares. Spontaneous estrous cycles were characterized by the following: (1) the IOI length was 21 days; (2) dominant and subordinate follicles emerged together at day 5 (ovulation = day 0), and their growth rates were slower until the day of deviation; (3) the deviation in growth rates between the two largest follicles of the ovulatory wave occurred when the dominant and subordinate follicles reached 22 and 21 mm in diameter, respectively; (4) the mean diameter of the preovulatory follicle at the day before ovulation was 43 mm; (5) different combinations of follicular waves were observed in each interovulatory interval; (6) the corpus luteum reached its maximum diameter about 2 days after ovulation and decreased gradually afterward; (7) after ovulation, the cervical and uterine tones were positively correlated and remained elevated until the onset of the expected luteolysis (days 12–14); and (8) after the expected luteolysis, the endometrial echotexture started to increase and reached maximum values 5–3 days before ovulation, when it started to decrease. Moderate-to-strong positive correlations between IOIs revealed repeatability within animals for the diameter of the preovulatory follicle at maximum and at the day before ovulation, cervical and uterine tones, endometrial echotexture, and corpus luteum diameter. The findings herein presented are of fundamental importance for a better understanding of the reproductive physiological patterns of the estrous cycle in the Criollo breed mare.

Body and testicular biometry of Crioulo stallions

ABSTRACT: Brazilian Association of Crioulo Horse Breeders (ABCCC) establishes minimal and maximal body biometrics evaluation; although, nothing is mentioned about testicular measurements. Body and testicular growth are associated and related to age. We described data regarding body and testicular biometry of Crioulo stallions, with a comparative study between young and adult categories. Evaluation was performed in 56 stallions, Crioulo breed, split in: youngsters (3 and 4 years-old, n=16) and adults (above 5 years-old, n=40). Body biometry included weight, height, cannon bone and chest circumference, body score condition and neck fat accumulation. Testicular biometry included height, length, width, volume, combined volume and daily sperm output (DSO). Statistical analyses included descriptive statistic, Pearson correlation, comparison between means by Kruskal Wallis, being P < 0.05 considered significant. There was no significant difference between the parameters of body and testicular biometrics between categories young and adult. In relation to height, the average was very close to the lower limit established, while chest and cannon bone circumference were above the minimum recommended by ABCCC. Cannon bone circumference presented a positive correlation with height. Most of stallions presented excessive body fat, with a body score condition above 8 (scale 1-9). Neck fat accumulation presented a positive correlation with body score condition. Testicular height, length, width and volume presented a positive correlation between the ipsi and contralateral testicle, total testicular volume and DSO. In conclusion, no difference in the body and testicular biometric evaluation was observed between young and adult Crioulo stallions. Testicular and body growth are associated and also related to age, so our finding suggested that after 3-4 years-old most of Crioulo stallions have already reached maximum growth.

Antimicrobial Resistance of Coagulase-positive Staphylococcus Isolated From Healthy Crioulo Horses and Associated Risk Factors

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global concern that must be addressed from a one health perspective. Horses are companion animals and their contact with humans facilitates exchange of resistant bacteria. This study aimed to evaluate AMR of coagulase-positive Staphylococcus (CoPS), including Staphylococcus aureus, isolated from healthy Crioulo horses. Swab samples from nostrils (n = 214) and skin (n = 107) of 107 horses from Porto Alegre, South Brazil, were used for CoPS isolation. The isolates were evaluated for AMR and a multivariate logistic regression was applied to identify the risk factors associated to this outcome, using information on horses’ management and installations where they were maintained. A total of 143 CoPS were isolated from 79 horses (73.8%), of which 8 (5.6%) were S. aureus. The isolates showed resistance to seven of 10 tested antimicrobials and 38.5% (55/143) of them were resistant to at least one antimicrobial. One isolate (0.7%; 1/143) was classified as multidrug-resistant. Regarding S. aureus, 62.5 % (5/8) showed AMR, but none were methicillin-resistant. The risk factors associated with CoPS’ antimicrobial resistance were lower frequency of bed changing (OR = 6.40; P = .001) and nonaccumulation of bed materials (OR = 3.47; P = .002). The results point that healthy horses have antimicrobial-resistant CoPS and S. aureus in their microbiota, which may be of concern for animal and human health. Moreover, bed management was associated with AMR, which can serve as a guide for best practices to be adopted to avoid the occurrence of resistant bacteria in these animals.

Effects of daily curve and age on intraocular pressure in Criollo horses

The objective of this study was to evaluate the intraocular pressure (IOP) of healthy Criollo horses using a rebound tonometer throughout the day. In addition, assessments were made in horses of different ages. Twenty-seven horses, male and female, were divided into three groups by age: Group I (3-5 years old), Group II (6-8 years old), and Group III: (9-16 years old). Ophthalmic examinations were performed using the Schirmer tear test, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, fluorescein test and indirect ophthalmoscopy. Seven measurements of IOP were assessed on the same day (at 6:00 am, 9:00 am, 12:00 am, 3:00 pm, 6:00 pm, 9:00 pm and 00:00 pm). A t-test was used when there were two groups of comparisons and ANOVA was used to detect differences in IOP between measurement times and between age categories. The average IOP was 28.4 ± 3.7 mmHg for all eyes. The mean IOP for Groups I, II and III were 29.2 ± 3.5, 28.4 ± 4.3 and 27.7 ± 3.2 mmHg, respectively. There was no statistically difference between right and left eyes. There was a significant difference between Group I and Group III (P = 0.008). There were no statistically significant differences between measurements recorded at different times of the day (P = 0.560). The IOP was not influenced by the circadian rhythm, but older horses showed reduced IOP.

Diagnostic Process in a Crioulo Horse with Cushing’s Syndrome

Background: Equine pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction, also known as equine Cushing’s syndrome, is a neurodegenerative disease. An important risk factor for Cushing’s is advanced aging and it is the most common endocrine disorder in older horses. The prevalence in horses aged over 10 and 15 years is reported as 9.3% and 21%, respectively. Due to the slow progressive nature of the disease, seasonal variation in hormone output and overlapping endocrine response to other events, accurate diagnosis is challenging. The diagnosis requires the combination of anamnesis, clinical signs, in addition to laboratory tests results. This study aimed to report Cushing’s syndrome in a Crioulo breed horse focusing on diagnostic methods.Case: A 13-year-old male Crioulo breed, orchiectomized, was attended at the Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), in Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil. The owner reported that the animal had progressive weight loss and coat abnormal growth, with curly appearance. From visual inspection, body condition score was 4 (1-9) bulging abdomen was noticed, hirsutism, depression and lethargy. Also, there was a large neoplastic mass on the left side of gluteal region. Later, this mass was classified in histopathological examination as a fibroblastic sarcoid and was treated. The animal presented physical parameters within the physiological limits of the specie. Normochromic normocytic anemia and neutrophilic leukocytosis were reported in the hematologic evaluation. In coproparasitological examination, there were 300 eggs per gram of feaces. Hyperadrenocorticism was suspected in the clinical examination and dexamethasone suppression test was performed to confirm the fact. Basal serum was collected at 17 h (M0) and subsequently 40 µg/kg of dexamethasone was administered intramuscularly. Serum samples were taken after 15 (M15) and 19 (M19) h, resulting in cortisol levels of 1.7 and 1.8 μg/dL, respectively. The M15 and M19 results were above reference values for horses (below 1 μg/dL). Combination of information gathered from anamnesis, clinical examination and dexamethasone suppression test resulted in the definitive diagnosis of hyperadrenocorticism, also known as Cushing’s syndrome. Paliative treatment included shearing all over the body and vitamin supplementation.Discussion: In animals without obvious clinical signs, Cushing's syndrome diagnosis is challenging. The most unique and specific clinical signs are the development of abnormal hair coat, mainly hirsutism, delayed or incomplete shedding, and in aged horse, lightening of coat color. The mechanistic cause of these signs is still barely understood. Cushing's is a collection of syndromes each with a unique set of clinical signs and hormone profiles, which varies according to each individual. Complementary examinations are extremely important and endocrine tests are highly recommended in addition to suggestive findings. However, despite the variety of existing tests, false negatives or false positives can frequently happen. Dexamethasone suppression test is considered the gold standard, well validated, practical and low cost for the diagnosis of this disease. In the present report, the combination of anamnesis (13 years old, weight loss, and abnormal coat), clinical exam (hirsutism) and dexamethasone suppression test (over 1 μg/dL of cortisol 15 h and 19 h after dexamethasone administration) resulted in the definitive diagnosis of Cushing’s syndrome. Measurements of plasma concentrations of cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH) stimulation test, serum insulin concentration and necropsy are other available tests. History, clinical signs and test results are important to achieve the definitive diagnoses, and when possible, it is advisable to perform post-mortem evaluation of the pituitary gland.

Macroscopic and Histological Morphology of the Equine Digital Cushion and Its Association with Subcutaneous Fat Thickness

This study evaluated the influence of the Body Condition Score (BCS) and subcutaneous fat thickness on the tissue composition of the digital cushion in horses. Sixty mixed breeds of Criollo horses (21 males and 39 females) were sent for slaughter. All animals were submitted to BCS analysis, through visual antemortem evaluation, and then ultrasound evaluation to estimate the subcutaneous fat thickness. Macroscopic analyses of the thoracic and a pelvic limb (weight, volume, and density of the hooves and digital cushions) were performed. In addition, measurements of the area of internal structures to the hoof and histological analyzes were carried out to measure the areas of adipose, fibroelastic, and collagen fibers of the digital cushion. There were no macroscopic differences in the digital cushion between thoracic and pelvic limbs or between genders (P > .05). Likewise, the histological characteristics between the limbs and the genders were similar (P > .05). There was no correlation between the weight, volume, and density of the digital cushion with the BCS (P > .05). A positive correlation was observed with the area of adipose tissue (P = .038, R2 = 0.28) and a negative correlation with area of fibroelastic tissue (P = .005, R2 = −0.37) and collagen fibers (P = .003, R2 = −0.39). In conclusion, the adipose tissue, fibroelastic tissue, and collagen fibers of equine digital cushion alter their areas in the functions of the various subcutaneous fat patterns in horses.

Genetic parameters of morphometric measurements in Criollo horses

The aim of this study was to estimate the genetic parameters for the morphometric measurements of withers height (WH), thoracic circumference (TC) and cannon bone circumference (CBC) of Criollo horses, stratified for maternal and paternal effects. Statistical genetic design of factor crossings was used to evaluate the offspring of full siblings and half-siblings. Fifty stallions were selected (n=50) who had been crossed with six mares each (n=6), to provide 300 parental pairings in which two offspring were born per mare (n=600). WH in females and TC in males were highly influenced by additive genetic effects, while the other morphometric measures were found to be closely related to the general effects of the environment. WH had the greatest additive genetic influence on female offspring (47.06%), while TC presented the greatest additive genetic influence on male offspring (58.73%). When comparing the parental influence on the morphometric characteristics evaluated, TC and CBC had greater additive genetic influence from maternal effects, regardless of offspring sex. However, the WH in female offspring showed greater maternal additive genetic contribution, while in males this characteristic presented greater paternal additive genetic influence. For WH in male offspring, narrow sense heritability ( : 0.26) was more influenced by paternal effects, while for WH in females ( : 0.47), TC in females ( : 0.08) and males ( : 0.59), and CBC in females ( : 0.07) and males ( : 0.05) the maternal effects were the most important. Therefore, the phenotypic expression of WH in males and females and TC in males is influenced by the additive genetic effect of the genes. On the other hand, the TC in female progenies and CBC in progenies of both sexes are closely related to the effects of the environment. The results obtained in this study could be useful in the selection process of Criollo horses.

Embryo transfers in Criollo horses: what is known about economic impacts

Many years of poor results of equine embryo cryopreservation has produced a lack of confidence in this technique. Embryo cryopreservation has been successfully used for more than 20 years in other species like bovine and human. The large size of the embryos and the presence of a capsule impermeable to cryoprotectants have been the two main reasons for the failure. In the last few years, a mayor breakthrough for this technique was obtained when large equine embryos could be successfully cryopreserved after breaching the capsule and collapsing the blastocoel cavity. In the present study, we compared the pregnancy rates obtained by vitrification or cryopreservation by slow freezing of embryos smaller than 300 μm. No difference was found between vitrification and slow freezing of embryos <180 μm (pregnancy rate on day 16: 34/61, 55.7%; 6/8, 75%) but produced very low results for embryos between 180 and 300 μm in diameter (0/11, 0%; 1/7, 14.3%). Embryos larger than 300 μm were collapsed before cryopreservation, and two different types of carriers, hemi-straw or Stripper-Tip, were used for vitrification. High pregnancy rates were obtained when the hemi-straw was used as a carrier (7/10, 70% vs. 0/5, 0%), demonstrating that a minimum vitrification volume was essential to preserve the embryo viability. These findings establish that, due to the large range in diameter, equine embryos need to be cryopreserved using different protocols depending on their size.

Digit innervation of the thoracic limb of Criollo horses: Anatomical description and consequences to perineural blocks.

Criollo horse breeding is an important economic activity in South America. Because of their athletic performance, these animals tend to show great incidence of musculoskeletal disorders, many of them diagnosed by means of perineural blocks. However, incorrect interpretation of these blocks may be due to anatomical differences in nerve distribution. The objective of this study was to describe the innervation of the digit region of thoracic limbs in Criollo horses, in order to improve the interpretation of tests for claudication diagnosis based on nerve block. Thirty thoracic limbs from Criollo horses were dissected. It could be observed that in 90% of the limbs, dorsal branches of the palmar nerve originated proximally to the proximal sesamoid bone. In 93% of the cases, the palmar digital nerve and the dorsal branches communicated; in 87% of the cases, communication between branches of the dorsal branch was observed; and in 27% (8/30) of the limbs, the palmar metacarpal nerve and the dorsal branch presented communications. None of the specimens showed complete symmetry in the distribution of nerves in contralateral limbs. The high frequency of communication between the nerves may be a particularity of the Criollo breed that may interfere with the interpretation of perineural blocks. Based on the anatomical position, it may be inferred that divergent results in Criollo horses may occur when abaxial sesamoid nerve block is used. Palmar digital nerve block may be less influenced by these variations, provided it is performed as distal as possible from the ungular cartilage.

Observational Study of the Route’s Characteristics of Tourism Carriage in a Tropical City

The aim of this observational study was to describe the characteristics of circuits performed by horses used in carriage tourism in a tropical city and discuss their implications as a challenge for animal welfare. The tourism circuit of 33 Criollo horses (400 ± 50 kg) was followed by using the GPS from August 31 to December 2nd, 2018, in the rainfall summer season. The environmental temperature, humidity, and accumulated rainfall were obtained from a local meteorological station. The distance and number of trips, the number of people transported, and the time taken for working and resting activities were also registered to report descriptive statistics. A total of 69 trips were observed with a mean distance of 5 ± 0.5 km traveled in 47 ± 16 minutes, the number of trips performed by the horses being as maximum as six per day, and a continuous pulling activity of 4 hours and 42 minutes. The horses rested one day after two consecutive working days; resting within the same day lasted from one to 8 hours. The trips respected the carts’ capacity of 6 people including the driver (∼700 kg); mean daily temperature and relative humidity were 35.25 ± 1.54°C and 43.40 ± 6.58, respectively. No feed or water was offered during the carriage work. Considering that load-pulling capacity of light horses in low-friction surfaces can easily reach 2000 kg, carriage activity observed in the present study demand an under-maximum effort for horses. In addition, the length and intensity of workload does not imply a challenge for horse welfare. Nevertheless, watering practices could be improved and microweather conditions in warmer months should be monitored.

Approach to Treatment of Multiple Sarcoids in Crioulo Horses

Background: The equine sarcoid corresponds to one third of equine tumors, and may present as single or multiple and in six different shapes. The etiology is still unknown, but it brings with it some predisposing factors. Confirmatory diagnosis is made based on histopathology evaluation. There are several treatments described in the literature, therefore, it varies according to the choice of the veterinarian, the conditions and interests of the owner and the characteristics of the sarcoid tumor. The present research work aims to report the case of a Crioule horse that presented of a multiple sarcoids in different shapes of the body and, testing the efficacy and response to the chosen treatment.Case: The Crioulo gateado coat stallion, aged six years and seven months and weigh 360 kg. In the physical evaluation observed alert behavior, body score (ECC) three (1-5), 36 bpm, 20 mpm. The pelvic right limb (PRL) presented a mobile fibroblastic nodule was found on the proximal dorsal face of the third metatarsal bone (MTIII), pendular and broad-based, ulcerated, with a diameter of approximately 10 cm x 7 cm associated of a dark pink color. Likewise, on the caudal surface of the ear observed verrucous sessile flat lesion with a diameter of 5 cm and, in the right corner of the mouth, a non-ulcerated, pendular, mobile dark red color nodule evidenced with a diameter approximately 3 cm. Similarly, there were multiple ulcerated pendulous dark pink color mobiles nodules in the region of the left and right groin, as well in the pectoral region. For histopathological evaluation, a 0.5 cm specimen tumor of the medial corner of the mouth was collected and observed proliferation of connective tissue and thickening of the epidermis with pseudocarcinomatous projections suggestive of sarcoid lesion tumor. Subsequently, surgical removal tumors associated with cryotherapy and application of 0.25 ml of intralesional vincristine to each region. In addition, an autologous implant tumors specimen of the 0.3 cm approximately was performed after 15 minutes cryopreservation. They were implanted of the subcutaneous neck space in 1 cm incisions and synthesis with simple interrupted pattern using 2-0 nylon. As postoperative PRL care consisted of the utilization Robert Jones bandage for 20 days period, with changes and wound care in an interval of 4 days associated with the daily antisepsis care of the other treated areas. The patient evaluated 10 months after the aforementioned procedures and complete healing tumors lesions.Discussion: The etiology of the sarcoid not well defined, but there are some predispositions such as race, handling of animals and the location of the body. The accompanied animal falls within the aforementioned predispositions observed in this case characterized of the association breed cattle. Probably the sarcoid tumors to be related together of the bovine papillomavirus, and was affected in the most cited regions, such as members, mouth and ears. The sarcoid can appear in six different shapes, several of which can be found in the same animal. Among the treatments mentioned, we opted for the association of surgical removal, associated with cryotherapy and the use of intralesional vincristine, in addition to autologous implants and topical use of Acyclovir. Considering that there have been no recurrences at this moment, the treatment was effective in eliminating the sarcoid tumors and making it a good option for the control lesions of the clinically presented high rates of recurrences.

Foals Developmental Orthopedic Disease Associated with Metabolic and Biometric Characterization of Pregnant Overweight Crioulo Mares

Background: Musculoskeletal changes in growing foals can be linked to metabolic disorders which affect the cartilage metabolism associated of obesity during the late gestation of the mares, negatively affecting the athletic performance of the otherwise prospective foals. High basal insulin levels can be associated with increased weight and obesity of the mares, altering the supply of the glucose to the fetus and the production of IGF-1, which plays an important role in the endochondral cartilage metabolism. The present study aims to describe the association of the articular and the physeal possible lesions and the IGF-1 levels of the foals to metabolic and biometric measurements alterations of the overweight Crioulo mares in the late gestation.Materials, Methods &amp; Results: A prospective and observational cohort study was conducted using the foals and the overweight mares at field conditions. Twenty-eight foals and their overweight mothers were utilized. The foals’ biometric and metabolic features as weight and height; glucose, total cholesterol, cholesterol HDL, triglycerides, basal insulin, leptin, glucose, total T4 and IGF-1 were analyzed, from the birth until the weaning period around sixth month of life of it. All the foals, at the weaning period, were submitted to the radiograph examination of the tarsal joints and the metacarpal-phalangeal joints to evaluate signs of lesions and the possible distal metacarpal physeal changes, respectively. The mares’ biometric and metabolic features as weight, height and fat tail-head deposition; basal insulin, leptin, glucose, total cholesterol, cholesterol HDL and triglycerides were analyzed at the final period of gestation. The basal insulin levels of the foals at the second, fourth and sixth month of life were 9.87 + 1.82 µUI/mL, 9.13 + 1.94 µUI/mL, 9.39 + 2.54 µUI/mL. The IGF-1 levels of the foals at the second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth month of life were 290.27 + 79.72 ng/mL; 180.77 + 66.22 ng/mL; 151.79 + 46.64 ng/mL; 110.81 + 33.13 ng/mL and 89.59 + 14.00 ng/mL. Foals presented osteoarthritis (92.85%) of the distal tarsal joints and 50% of it presented physitis of the distal metacarpal epiphyseal plate. The weight and the basal insulin levels of the mares at the last three months of gestation were 501.80 + 6.4 kg, 511.76 + 8.0 kg, 533.23 + 8.2 kg and 11.7 + 2.1 µUI/mL, 9.8 + 1.1 µUI/mL, 13.7 + 1.6 µUI/mL, respectively.Discussion: In the present study, from the second to the sixth month of the period life, the foals showed IGF-1 levels of 290 to 89 ng/mL, and demonstrated, at 6-month-old, a prevalence of 92.85% of distal tarsus lesions and 50% of physitis of the distal metacarpal epiphyseal plate. In association, the overweight mares showed an increase of the insulin basal levels when nearing parturition. The occurrence of physitis in 50% of the 6-month-old foals in the present study demonstrate that the metabolic changes are involved in this process and the IGF-1 levels were observed to be lower than in healthy foals of other breeds. The lower IGF-1 levels during the developmental period of the foals are associated with a decrease of bone density and mass, musculoskeletal atrophy and osteoarthritis. In the present study, the decreasing curve of IGF-1 levels (P &lt; 0.05) of the foals, from the second to sixth month of life, is similar to others researches with foals from other breeds from 0 to 7 months of life. In previous researches with Crioulo horses, it was observed that foals aged less than 18 months had up to 100% of prevalence of articular tarsus lesions. This suggest that the tarsus lesions observed in 92.85% of the 6-month-old foals in the present study, could not heal and that lesions should remain in the foals to adulthood.

Use of Platelet-rich Plasma in the Treatment of Desmitis of Distal Interphalangeal Joint Collateral Ligament in a Horse

Background: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been increasingly used to hasten healing of tendonitis and desmitis, allowing horse athletes to go back to practicing sports in a shorter period of time. However, its use has rarely been reported in the treatment of desmitis of the collateral ligaments of the distal interphalangeal joint (CL-DIP), which is based on the use of horseshoes and rest for at least six months. This paper describes the use of PRP as an aid in the treatment of CL-DIP in a horse athlete.Case: A male Criollo horse, 450 kg, about 15-year-old, used for team roping. The animal had a month-long history of lameness, and a visual inspection revealed an increase in volume in the lateral dorsal region of the limb proximal to the coronary band of the hoof. A specific examination of the locomotive system showed Grade III, Category 5 claudication, which became evident the beginning of the exercise and ceased after a short period. A radiographic evaluation of the distal phalanx revealed no clinically relevant changes. Therefore, and in view of the location of the increased volume, an ultrasound scan was performed, which showed an image compatible with an extensive hematoma in the region underlying the perioplic corium, while the CL-DIP presented swelling with large areas of hypoechogenicity. Considering the findings of the image, the physical examination and the history of the horse, desmitis of the collateral ligaments of the distal interphalangeal joint was diagnosed. The treatment plan consisted of rest, application of a therapeutic horseshoe, and infiltration of the lesion with platelet-rich plasma (PRP). First, however, warm compresses were applied to reduce the swelling. The PRP was obtained by collecting whole blood from the external jugular vein, subjecting it to double centrifugation, and separating the supernatant blood plasma. The end product was applied to the lesion by ultrasound-guided infiltration. The horseshoe was a model with extended side bar, i.e., an egg bar horseshoe. After 15 days of PRP infiltration, another ultrasound scan was performed, which showed improved echogenicity of the ligament. The animal was discharged, and rest and the use of the horseshoe for 6 months were recommended. However, the owner expressed interest in having his horse participate in a high level team roping event, which was slated to take place two months hence. In view of this plan, rest was recommended for a further 15 days, followed by a gradual return to the exercise until the moment of the competition, which should be interrupted if the animal displayed any sign of lameness. The animal performed well in the competition, showing no loss of performance due to locomotor changes. Discussion: Locomotor disorders in the digit region are common in Creole horses, and one of the affected structures in this area is the CL-DIP. Desmitis of this ligament is characterized by acute claudication in animals without radiographic abnormalities, and can be diagnosed based on ultrasound scans. The main cause of this disorder stems from biomechanical alterations, and therefore the main treatment is the use of a therapeutic bar horseshoe on the affected side. The prognosis varies between favorable and unfavorable, and the healing time lasts on average 6 months. In view of this lengthy period of time, one of the alternatives to hasten healing is to use PRP, which is commonly used in tendonitis of the flexor tendon and suspensory ligament desmitis. Nevertheless, this technique provides variable outcomes and its application to CL-DIP remains insufficiently described. In the case reported here, its use in association with conventional treatment was effective, enabling the horse to participate in competitive events without loss of performance due to claudication.