Best Use of Clinical Pathology Testing in Equine Practice

The potential value of hematology and plasma chemistries in equine practice is well documented by numerous case series reports and experimental studies. The maximal use of hematology and chemistries are to help with the diagnosis, clinical management and/or prognosis of the ill or poorly performing horse. In cases where the diagnosis can be arrived at from the history, signalment, and clinical exam, and the prognosis can be accurately predicted, hematology/chemistry testing may not be the best use of the client’s financial resources. During the past few years several point of care instruments (mostly for blood gases, lactate, glucose and chemistries) have become available for use in equine practice. These instruments allow almost immediate stall side results for many analyte measurements. Additionally, at least 3 companies have marketed small, automated bench instruments for equine hematology and chemistry measurements. These instruments have proven reliable and provide quick and valuable laboratory information without using a reference laboratory. The stall side testing and small bench top testing facilitates an improved quality of care for horses and in many practices are a sound investment. The information on hematology and plasma/serum chemistries in this handout refers mostly to adult horses. Responses in foals may differ and will be mentioned in the presentation.