Evaluation of peritoneal fluid lactate as a marker of intestinal ischaemia in equine colic.
Authors: Latson K M, Nieto J E, Beldomenico P M, Snyder J R
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Peritoneal Fluid Lactate as a Marker of Intestinal Ischaemia in Equine Colic Intestinal ischaemia represents one of the most serious complications in equine colic cases, frequently culminating in acute circulatory failure and death; early identification of ischaemic bowel is therefore critical for surgical decision-making and improving survival outcomes. Latson and colleagues investigated whether peritoneal fluid lactate concentrations, and specifically the gradient between blood and peritoneal lactate values, could serve as a reliable diagnostic marker for ischaemic intestinal lesions. By characterising lactate measurements according to specific types of colic lesion—distinguishing between lesions with and without compromised blood supply—the researchers provided clinically relevant reference values that previous studies had not offered. The findings demonstrated that peritoneal lactate concentrations and blood-to-peritoneal lactate gradients differed significantly between ischaemic and non-ischaemic lesions, offering practitioners an objective laboratory parameter to support clinical assessment. For equine practitioners, this work refines the diagnostic interpretation of peritoneal fluid sampling, enabling more confident early identification of ischaemic bowel and more timely decisions regarding surgical intervention versus conservative management.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Peritoneal fluid lactate measurement provides a clinically useful tool for early identification of intestinal ischaemia in colic cases, helping prioritize surgical intervention
- •Different types of intestinal lesions show distinct lactate patterns, allowing better prognostication and treatment planning
- •Incorporating lactate analysis into your colic workup may help distinguish ischaemic from non-ischaemic cases before irreversible damage occurs
Key Findings
- •Peritoneal fluid lactate values can serve as a prognostic indicator for intestinal ischaemia in equine colic cases
- •Lactate values differ by type of intestinal lesion, enabling lesion-specific characterization
- •Early recognition of ischaemic bowel via lactate measurement is essential for reducing complications and improving survival rates