CLINICAL SIGNS OF LEAD TOXICOSIS IN AN IRISH HORSE (CASE REPORT)
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Lead toxicosis is thought to be a rare problem in horses, and the clinical signs are variable. This case report from the UK is highly interesting, describing the non-specific clinical signs, the source of the metal and also the therapy - including the long time it takes for at least partial resolution of the clinical signs.
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A 13-year-old Irish Draught cross gelding was referred for abnormal respiratory noise at low level exercise.
Bilateral laryngeal paralysis was observed during the resting endoscopic examination. Blood samples revealed lead toxicosis and subsequent soil analysis confirmed high lead levels.
Treatment with the lead chelating agent calcium disodium ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid was successful in rapidly reducing blood lead levels; however, complications were observed during this treatment.
Despite bilateral laryngeal paralysis, the horse maintained a good quality of life and following placement of a tracheostomy tube was able to continue ridden exercise.
Two years after treatment right sided laryngeal function appeared normal; however, a grade 5 (of 5) left laryngeal hemiplegia was still present.
Prolonged time periods are required for improvements in peripheral neuropathy subsequent to lead toxicosis to occur.
Source: K. J. Allen (2010): Laryngeal paralysis secondary to lead toxicosis. In: Equine Veterinary Education
Volume 22 Issue 4, Pages 182 - 186
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