Septicemia neonatal eqüina: revisão de literatura

Abstract

Septicemia is defined as the systemic reaction in the presence of microorganisms or their toxins in the bloodstream and has been implicated as one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality in the equine neonate. The foals are particularly susceptible to infection due to being born without the protection of maternal immunoglobulins, which are unable to cross the placental barrier. The total intake and absorption of colostrum in the first six hours of life is crucial for the survival of the neonate. Foals that presents failure of transfer of passive immunity are at risk of becoming septicemic. The foal’s response to sepsis may be variable, depending on the duration and intensity of the infection. The combination of the historical risk factors, physical signs and laboratory tests are important tools in early recognition of the septicemic condition. Until the result of culture from blood are available, antimicrobial therapy should be applied using broad-spectrum antibiotics. The aim of this paper was to conduct a literature review about equine neonatal sepsis.