HEMATURIA AND LEPTOSPIRURIA IN A FOAL

A Thoroughbred foal that was born after 305 days of gestation was refe rred 6 hours after birth. On initial examination, the foal was alert, but weak and unable to stand. Heart rate was 150 beats/min, respirator y rate was 48 breaths/min, and rectal temperature was 33 C. Leukocytos is was detected (26.000 WBC/mul). Dysuria and passage of red urine was observed approximately 30 hours after admission. Urine collected by f ree catch had a 3+ reaction for blood on dipstick analysis. Examinatio n of Warthin Starry-stained sections of allantochorion revealed organi sms morphologically characteristic of Leptospira spp along the chorion . Results of direct fluorescent antibody tests on section of placenta were positive for Leptospira spp. Direct fluorescent antibody testing identified leptospires in the urine of the foal. Sera from mare and fo al were tested for antibodies against Leptospira spp by use of the mic roscopic agglutination test. High titers were identified in serum from the mare and foal.