Anorectal lymphadenopathy causing colic, perirectal abscesses, or both in five young horses.

摘要

Dyschezia and clinical signs consistent with abdominal pain were the predominant reasons for evaluation of 5 young (3 to 15 month old) horses. Digital transrectal palpation revealed a firm mass obstructing the caudal aspect of the rectum in each horse. Results of cytological evaluation of the masses revealed a lymphoid population of cells in 4 of 5 horses. These nodes regressed over time or became abscesses and drained into the rectum. In 1 horse, detection of a mature abscess and concomitant dysuria necessitated immediate surgical drainage of the mass; however, the other 4 horses were successfully managed medically, thereby avoiding risks associated with surgery of the perirectal area. It is suggested that anorectal lymphadenopathy should be considered as a differential diagnosis in young horses with colic.