Work

Assessment of haptoglobin, ceruloplasmin, albumin, malondialdehyde, and nitric oxide levels, and selected vital and hematological parameters in colic affected horses

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study aimed to evaluate selected vital signs, as well as biochemical, hematological, acute phase, and oxidative stress markers, in horses diagnosed with colic. The study population consisted of 50 horses, including 30 colic-affected horses (both male and female, aged 2 to 10 years, various breeds) presented due to dietary changes, and 20 clinically healthy horses of similar age serving as controls. For all horses, rectal temperature, respiratory and heart rates, and capillary refill time were assessed. Blood samples were collected from colic-affected horses immediately upon clinical presentation-approximately 4 to 8 hours after the onset of clinical signs as reported by owners-and before any treatment was initiated. Serum samples were analyzed for albumin (Alb), haptoglobin (Hpt), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), and ceruloplasmin (Cp), along with white blood cell (WBC), red blood cell (RBC), hematocrit (Hct), hemoglobin (Hb), and platelet (THR) counts. Hpt (P<0.001), MDA, and Cp (P<0.05) levels were significantly higher in colic-affected horses compared to controls, whereas Alb was significantly lower (P<0.05). WBC, Hct, Hb, and THR were also significantly elevated (P<0.05). Among vital signs, respiratory and heart rates, as well as capillary refill time, were significantly increased in the colic group (P<0.05). In conclusion, the concurrent assessment of vital signs and selected biochemical, acute phase, and oxidative stress markers may provide valuable diagnostic insights in the evaluation of colic in horses

Source: Journal of Advances in VetBio Science and Techniques

DOI: 10.31797/vetbio.1713506