Equine Epistaxis Lecture Review

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on equine epistaxis, including causes, diagnostic plans, clinical signs, and treatment considerations.

What is epistaxis?

Epistaxis is the presence of blood at the external nares, which can range from small flecks to large volumes of blood.

What is haemoptysis?

Haemoptysis refers to coughing up blood.

What are potential sources of epistaxis in horses?

Potential sources include the nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, guttural pouches, oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, trachea, and lungs.

What is a common characteristic of the nasal cavity's bleeding?

Bleeding from the nasal cavity is usually unilateral and appears spontaneously.

What are some causes of scant bleeding from the nasal cavity?

Scant bleeding can be due to foreign bodies, fungal granulomas, or neoplasms.

What can cause profuse bleeding from the nasal cavity?

Profuse bleeding can be due to iatrogenic causes, ethmoid haematomas, or variable trauma.

What conditions can lead to epistaxis from the paranasal sinuses?

Conditions include trauma, neoplasia, ethmoid haematoma, and coagulation disorders.

What are potential causes of bleeding from the guttural pouches?

Potential causes include mycosis, foreign body, neoplasia, purpura, DIC, and other clotting defects.

What important elements should be included in a diagnostic plan for epistaxis?

Key elements include history, physical examination, and evaluation of the head and respiratory system.

What history details are important for diagnosing epistaxis?

Important history includes duration, frequency, volume and color of blood, nostril involvement, exercise association, recent trauma, and toxic plants.

What is included in a complete physical examination for epistaxis?

Physical examination should include head and respiratory system evaluation, oral and nares examination, and checking for evidence of trauma.

What does a complete CBC help assess in cases of epistaxis?

A complete CBC helps assess red blood cell count, white blood cell count, and other parameters related to blood loss.

What is the significance of a clotting profile in diagnosing epistaxis?

A clotting profile is significant for determining coagulopathy and assessing bleeding disorders.

How can blood loss affect PCV (packed cell volume)?

No change in PCV is noted in the first 4 hours post blood loss; however, splenic contraction can raise PCV temporarily.

What are the clinical signs indicating the need for blood transfusion?

Signs include tachycardia, tachypnoea, reduced pulse quality, cool extremities, pale mucous membranes, and changes in mentation.

What is the formula for calculating oxygen extraction ratio (O2ER)?

O2ER = VO2 / DO2 (30%), where VO2 is venous partial pressure of O2 and DO2 is arterial partial pressure of O2.

What lab tests are important when assessing blood loss?

Tests include complete blood count (CBC), clotting profile, and biochemistry profile.

What should be evaluated during a respiratory system examination?

Evaluation should include checking for mucoid membranes, haematomas, prolonged bleeding, and signs of trauma.

What can cause changes in PCV after blood loss?

PCV changes may not be appreciated for 12-24 hours, often showing a decline in the succeeding hours after fluid recruitment.

What is the role of endoscopy in diagnosing causes of epistaxis?

Endoscopy can help visualize abnormalities and sources of bleeding in the nasal cavity, guttural pouches, and paranasal sinuses.

Why is assessing the history of an animal important in managing epistaxis?

History helps identify potential causes and urgent conditions requiring immediate attention for treatment.

What factors influence the decision-making process for blood component therapy?

Factors include clinical signs, clinical pathology, history of the animal, and professional experience.

What are some potential effects of trauma on the airways related to epistaxis?

Trauma can lead to pulmonary hemorrhage and bleeding from various anatomical locations.

What information can increase the likelihood of serious conditions when there are colour changes in blood observed?

Changes in color plus the volume of blood can help predict the source and urgency of intervention.

What might indicate coagulopathy in an animal?

Skin hemorrhages, blood spots, and prolonged bleeding times can indicate coagulopathy.