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===Clinicopathologic Evaluation===
===Clinicopathologic Evaluation===
Laboratory tests can be performed to assess the cardiovascular status of the patient. [[Packed Cell Volume]] (PCV) is a measure of hydration status, with a value 45% being considered significant. Increasing values over repeated examination are also considered significant. The total protein (TP) of blood may also be measured, as an aid in estimating the amount of protein loss into the intestine. Its value must be interpreted along with the PCV, to take into account the hydration status. Blood lactate levels are useful in determining severity of disease, and as a prognostic indicator; levels between 1-2mmol/L are considered normal, while levels above 5.7mmol/L are considered significant. "Colic scores" that combine several parameters can be relatively accurate prognostic indicators, although most laboratory tests have limited use in terms of specific diagnosis.
Laboratory tests can be performed to assess the cardiovascular status of the patient.
* Packed Cell Volume (PCV)
* Total Plasma Protein (TPP)
* Complete Blood Count (CBC)
* Blood Gases
* Electrolyte levels
=====Packed Cell Volume and Total Plasma Protein=====
Packed Cell Volume (PCV) and Total Plasma Protein (TPP) are a measure of hydration status in the horse with abdominal pain. Intestinal disease and dysfunction causes hypovolaemia which result in dehydration. Increasing values over repeated examination and values over 45% are considered significant. The total protein (TP) of blood may also be measured, as an aid in estimating the amount of protein loss into the intestine. Its value must be interpreted along with the PCV, to take into account the hydration status. The PCV and TPP rise together in dehydration.
An increasing PCV without a corresponding rise in TPP may indicate that protein is being lost from the blood into the intestinal lumen or peritoneal region. It may also be due to the spleen contracting and releasing more red blood cells into the circulation in response to endotoxin release or sympathetic nervous system innervation.
=====Complete Blood Count=====
A Complete Blood Count can be useful in the colic patient. In cases of acute inflammatory disease such as colitis and enteritis, a leucopaenia (<4000 cells/ul)with a left shift and toxic neutrophils can be seen.
Blood lactate levels are useful in determining severity of disease, and as a prognostic indicator; levels between 1-2mmol/L are considered normal, while levels above 5.7mmol/L are considered significant. "Colic scores" that combine several parameters can be relatively accurate prognostic indicators, although most laboratory tests have limited use in terms of specific diagnosis.
===Abdominocentesis===
===Abdominocentesis===