Laboratory findings
On presentation, Foal 1 had a neutrophilic (13.3 x10^9/L)
leukocytosis (18.2 x10^9/L). Foal 2 had a marked neutrophilic (15.74
x10^9/L) leukocytosis (18.34 x10^9/L), with hyperlactatemia (4.21
mmol/L), hypoproteinemia (46 g/L) and hypoalbuminemia (24.3 g/L).
Hematology in Foal 3 was unremarkable, with a mild hypoproteinemia (58
g/L) and hypoalbuminemia (23.5 g/L). IgG levels < 400 g/dL,
indicating failure of passive transfer, were found in Foals 1 & 2.
Synovial fluid analysis at admission of the LFTJ of Foal 1 revealed a
WCC of 133 x10^9/L; 93% polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) and total
protein (TP) 37 g/L. Synoviocentesis for foal 2 was unsuccessful, with
only gelatinous-like fibrin obtained. For Foal 3, LFTJ synovial fluid
WCC was 103 x10^9 cells/L, 97.1% PMNs, and TP 33 g/L.
LFTJ synovial fluid culture results were negative for bacterial growth
in Foal 1. In Foal 2, Micrococcus luteus was cultured from the
fibrinous tissue obtained; in Foal 3, Staphylococcus schleiferiwas cultured; both had a broad antimicrobial sensitivity pattern.