Cholelithiasis in horses: Ten cases (1982–1986)

Abstract

Ten horses with clinical signs consistent with cholelithiasis were evaluated. Fever, icterus, mild intermittent colic, and weight loss were reported. Clinical laboratory abnormalities included leukocytosis, hyper-proteinemia, and hyperfibrinogenemia. Gamma glutamyltransferase and liver isoenzyme of lactate dehydrogenase activities also were high. Choleliths were observed via ultrasonography of the liver in 5 of the 8 horses evaluated, and increased echogenicity of the hepatic parenchyma and dilated bile ducts were observed in all horses. Seven horses were treated medically, 5 of which died or were euthanatized. Three horses were treated surgically, of which only 1 survived. Cholelith composition varied, but cholesterol, calcium bilirubinate, and mixed bile pigments were most commonly observed.