An ongoing research study into Endothelial glycocalyx degradation in critically ill foals is underway under the direction of Diego Gomez, Assistant Professor DVM. MSc. MVSc. PhD. Dip. ACVIM at the University of Guelph.
Young foal enjoying a rest in a sunny pasture
The objective of the study is to determine blood levels of EG damage markers in critically ill foals, before and after fluid resuscitation to determine if this practice worsens the integrity of blood vessels.
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The endothelial glycocalyx (EG) is a thin gel-like layer covering the internal surface of blood vessels that regulates the transport of fluids, proteins oxygen and nutrients to the tissues. The EG also provides anticoagulant effects and protects the blood vessels from toxic insults.
Damage to the EG occurs when the blood supply to the tissue is compromised, in inflammation, and in patients with localized or blood-borne infections. In human medicine, there is increasing evidence that administration of large volume of fluids during resuscitation of critically ill patients damage the EG, even more than the disease itself.
Increased blood levels of markers associated with EG damage are also associated with increased risk of death.
Administration of resuscitation intravenous fluid is one of the most important interventions in the management of critically ill foals presented to referring hospitals. However, no information is available regarding the blood levels of markers associated with EG damage in critically ill foals, their association with mortality and the impact of resuscitation fluid on the EG degradation.
Therefore, the objective of this study is to determine the blood levels of EG damage markers in critically ill foals, before and after fluid resuscitation to determine whether this practice can worsen the integrity of the blood vessels.
The hypothesise tis hat the blood levels EG degradation markers will be associated with disease severity, degree of inflammation, as well as volume and speed of intravenous fluids administered during early resuscitation. This research study is one of many moving forward at the University of Guelph.
Press release by University of Guelph