A case report of clinical and paraclinical findings of duodenitis-proximal jejunitis in Dareshuri horse

Duodenitis-proximal jejunitis (DPJ) is a relatively-new syndrome in the horse and is characterized by inflammation and edema of the small intestine, excessive fluid secretion and large volume reflux of fluids into the jejunum, duodenum and stomach. This report describes the clinical and paraclinical findings of DPJ in a Dareshuri horse.
A 6-year-old Dareshuri mare with a history of depression, anorexia, bruxism, acute and sudden onset of colic, sweating, severe muscular tremor and ataxia was referred to the veterinary clinic. Vital signs of abnormalities included fever, increased respiratory and heart rate, hyperemic mucous membrane and increased capillary refill time (CRT). Dyspnea and lack of gastrointestinal sound (ileus) were detected on physical examination. Severe and intermittent fluid reflux from the stomach (a malodorous, green and turbid liquid, pH=7), with a volume of about three liters each time was observed during the four-day nasogastric intubation. A decrease in abdominal pain and heart rate was seen following the intubation. Hematological and biochemical findings showed signs of acute inflammation and toxemia in the mare. The exact cause of this syndrome is still unknown. Considering that there are no accurate statistics relating to the exact incidence and economic impact of DPJ in Iran, it is necessary for equine veterinary practitioners to be more accurate in determining the exact cause of this syndrome in horses presenting colic, and publish their findings.