Uroperitoneum in the hospitalised equine neonate: retrospective study of 31 cases, 1988-1997

Historical, physical and diagnostic data were reviewed retrospectively in 3 1 equine neonates with uroperitoneum. Gender predilection was not observed, and classic electrolyte abnormalities were seen in less than 50% of the ca ses. Aetiologies for uroperitoneum have been well described, but this revie w found that septicaemia/severe illness played a crucial role in the outcom e of uroperitoneum. Approximately half the individuals with uroperitoneum h ad positive sepsis scores, Foals receiving fluid therapy were more likely t o be septic and to have normal electrolyte concentrations. Ultrasonographic findings, serum creatinine and serum:peritoneal creatinine ratios were not affected by previous fluid therapy and were invaluable aids in the diagnos is of uroperitoneum, even with multisystemic disease such as sepsis.