Colic, Gastric Causes
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Gastric Causes of Colic
- Gastroduodenal ulceration or 'Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS)'
- Pyloric obstruction and delayed gastric emptying
- Gastric dilation and rupture
- Gastric impaction
- Gastric/pyloric spasm: this commonly affects racehorses, immediately after racing, and is known colloquially as 'racehorse colic'. Typically, the animal will have had access to cold water, but this is not always the case. Although the signs of colic seen may be very violent, this condition is not associated with any risk of gastric rupture. Spasmolytic drugs are ineffective in treatment, however, naso-gastric intubation is immediately curative.
- Gastric Neoplasia: a squamous cell carcinoma can effect the cardia and upper squamous regions of the stomach, resulting in a persistent mild colic, commonly seen soon after feeding. Chronic weight loss and general ill health are the main clinical signs.(Merck) Diagnosis is made by exclusion of other causes of weight loss and gastroscopy. The prognosis is grave, due to the high risk of metastasis.