Inflammatory markers for differentiation of endometritis in the mare.
Authors: Lection Jennine, Wagner Bettina, Byron Michael, Miller Andrew, Rollins Alicia, Chenier Tracey, Cheong Soon Hon, Diel de Amorim Mariana
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Inflammatory markers for differentiation of endometritis in the mare Chronic endometritis and endometrial fibrosis significantly compromise fertility in mares, yet current diagnosis relies on endometrial biopsy—an invasive procedure that delays treatment decisions. This 2024 research team investigated whether inflammatory markers in endometrial tissue could reliably distinguish between healthy mares, those with acute endometritis, and those with chronic degenerative changes, potentially enabling less invasive diagnostic approaches. By characterising the immunological profile of different endometrial pathologies, the authors sought to develop biomarkers that could be measured through more accessible sampling methods (such as uterine flushings or blood) rather than biopsy. The identification of specific, differentially expressed inflammatory markers could streamline breeding soundness evaluations and allow clinicians to make faster therapeutic decisions—particularly valuable when assessing mares with borderline fertility or recurrent breeding failure. If validated clinically, such biomarkers might ultimately reduce the need for invasive tissue sampling whilst providing objective, quantifiable data on endometrial health status.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Current endometritis diagnosis requires endometrial biopsy, which is invasive and time-consuming; emerging knowledge of immune markers may soon provide faster, non-invasive alternatives
- •Veterinarians should stay informed about developments in inflammatory biomarkers as these could streamline reproductive evaluations and improve mare fertility assessment protocols
- •This research direction could eventually allow earlier, easier detection of endometritis without requiring endoscopic biopsy procedures
Key Findings
- •Endometrial biopsy is currently the required diagnostic standard for chronic endometritis and endometrial degenerative fibrosis in mares
- •Enhanced understanding of equine reproductive immunology could enable development of less-invasive diagnostic approaches
- •Inflammatory markers represent a potential pathway to reduce reliance on invasive biopsy procedures for endometritis diagnosis