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Created page with "==Introduction== This results from '''failure of the urachus to close adjacent to the bladder''', leaving a diverticulum at the dome of the bladder. This condition is observed i..."
==Introduction==
This results from '''failure of the urachus to close adjacent to the bladder''', leaving a diverticulum at the dome of the bladder.
This condition is observed in '''foals'''.
It can be associated with '''bladder outlet obstruction'''. It may also act as a '''reservoir for bacteria''' if it is not completely evacuated during micturition and lead to urachitis and a patent urachus.
==Clinical signs==
Foals exhibit signs of '''stranguria, tenesmus and dysuria'''.
If '''urachitis''' develops the foal may appear depressed, stop suckling and show signs of sepsis.
A '''patent urachus''' will appear as a wet, leaking umbilical cord with scalding of the area.
==Diagnosis==
Urachal diverticuli are easily identified '''ultrasonographically'''.
The longitudinal view reveals an '''outpouching of the bladder apex''' ranging in size from a small projection to a large finger-like protruberance into the urachus.
The cross-sectional view reveals a fluid pocket that communicates with the bladder apex.
Urachal diverticuli can be '''mistaken for urachal abscesses''' if the urachus is not followed in its entirety to the bladder apex.
'''Serial evaluation''' of these foals is important to look for signs of urachitis.
A patent urachus should always be investigated through ultrasound examination of the abdomen, bladder and umbilical structures.
==Treatment==
If the urachal diverticulum is uncomplicated, '''no treatment is necessary''' as the urachus will usually seal completely within a few days. The prognosis is good.
Urachitis and a patent urachus cases should be administered '''antimicrobials''' and the urachus can be cauterised with 2% iodine or silver nitrate or '''surgical removal of the umbilical remnants''' can be performed.
==References==
McKinnon, A. (1998) '''Equine diagnostic ultrasonography''' ''Wiley-Blackwell''
Samper, J. (2008) '''Equine breeding management and artificial insemination''' ''Elsevier Health Sciences''
McKinnon, A. (1993) '''Equine reproduction''' ''Wiley-Blackwell''
Pycock, J. (1997) '''Self-assessment colour review of equine reproduction and stud medicine''' ''Manson Publishing''
[[Category:To Do - Helen]]
[[Category:To Do - Review]]
This results from '''failure of the urachus to close adjacent to the bladder''', leaving a diverticulum at the dome of the bladder.
This condition is observed in '''foals'''.
It can be associated with '''bladder outlet obstruction'''. It may also act as a '''reservoir for bacteria''' if it is not completely evacuated during micturition and lead to urachitis and a patent urachus.
==Clinical signs==
Foals exhibit signs of '''stranguria, tenesmus and dysuria'''.
If '''urachitis''' develops the foal may appear depressed, stop suckling and show signs of sepsis.
A '''patent urachus''' will appear as a wet, leaking umbilical cord with scalding of the area.
==Diagnosis==
Urachal diverticuli are easily identified '''ultrasonographically'''.
The longitudinal view reveals an '''outpouching of the bladder apex''' ranging in size from a small projection to a large finger-like protruberance into the urachus.
The cross-sectional view reveals a fluid pocket that communicates with the bladder apex.
Urachal diverticuli can be '''mistaken for urachal abscesses''' if the urachus is not followed in its entirety to the bladder apex.
'''Serial evaluation''' of these foals is important to look for signs of urachitis.
A patent urachus should always be investigated through ultrasound examination of the abdomen, bladder and umbilical structures.
==Treatment==
If the urachal diverticulum is uncomplicated, '''no treatment is necessary''' as the urachus will usually seal completely within a few days. The prognosis is good.
Urachitis and a patent urachus cases should be administered '''antimicrobials''' and the urachus can be cauterised with 2% iodine or silver nitrate or '''surgical removal of the umbilical remnants''' can be performed.
==References==
McKinnon, A. (1998) '''Equine diagnostic ultrasonography''' ''Wiley-Blackwell''
Samper, J. (2008) '''Equine breeding management and artificial insemination''' ''Elsevier Health Sciences''
McKinnon, A. (1993) '''Equine reproduction''' ''Wiley-Blackwell''
Pycock, J. (1997) '''Self-assessment colour review of equine reproduction and stud medicine''' ''Manson Publishing''
[[Category:To Do - Helen]]
[[Category:To Do - Review]]