Methods for evaluation of bone mineralization in foals

Main Article Content

Claudia Ehlers Kerber

Abstract

Some of the main equine diseases are related to the musculoskeletal system, mainly during the bone developing in young animals. In São Paulo state, Brazil, the use of tropical grasses for grazing, the seasons and a general tendency to concentrate a large number of horses in small areas, frequently results on bone diseases, sometimes subtle, which depreciate the economic value of the horses and decrease the chance of a maximum performance. An early diagnosis of mineral imbalance play an important role once the bone diseases can be reversible when corrected on time. The author presents a review of physiology and pathophysiology of the bone. Also describe the methods available for diagnostic and suggest the phosphorus clearance as a sensitive, early, low cost and easy way to evaluate calcium and phosphorus mobilization from the bone.  

Article Details

How to Cite
KERBER, C. E. Methods for evaluation of bone mineralization in foals. Revista de Educação Continuada em Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, v. 2, n. 1, p. 17-25, 1 Feb. 1999.
Section
LARGE ANIMALS - EQUINE