Uncommon Cause of Equine Colic Studied

Researchers from the University of Liverpool and Lancaster University in the U.K. have reported on a relatively uncommon cause of colic in horses.

In idiopathic focal eosinophilic enteritis (IFEE), small intestine blockage is associated with inflamed, thickened tissue that may form a ring completely around the circumference of the intestinal wall. Because it is difficult to differentiate colic caused by IFEE from other colic cases, most incidences are discovered when diagnostic surgery is performed.

In the study, researchers examined the records from 85 horses with IFEE. Records from 848 control horses were also examined; these horses were admitted to an equine clinic with colic signs and underwent exploratory surgery to establish a cause, but their colic cases were not related to IFEE.

Risk for IFEE was greatest between July and November, and was also highest in horses under the age of five. Causative factors and prevention measures are not known.