HEMODIALYSIS FOR TREATMENT OF OXYTETRACYCLINE-INDUCED ACUTE-RENAL-FAILURE IN A NEONATAL FOAL

Acute renal failure in a 4-day-old foal secondary to oxytetracycline t oxicosis was treated by hemodialysis. Oxytetracycline had been adminis tered as treatment for forelimb flexor tendon contracture. Conservativ e treatment with fluids, furosemide, and dopamine partially alleviated serum electrolyte concentration imbalances, but was ineffective in pr omoting diuresis or decreasing azotemia, Three hemodialysis treatments over 4 days were administered, after which the clinical appearance of the foal improved, and biochemical and electrolyte values returned to within reference ranges. The nephrotoxic potential of oxytetracycline should be considered prior to its administration. Hemodialysis may be a treatment option in management of acute renal failure in foals that are nonresponsive to conservative medical treatment.