Ventricular tachycardia associated with exhaustive exercise in a horse

J Am Vet Med Assoc. 1995 Aug 1;207(3):335-7.

Abstract

Ventricular tachycardia was diagnosed in a 12-year-old unconditioned Appaloosa gelding after a 3-day trail ride. Initial signs were those of abdominal discomfort, ileus, and dehydration. Medical treatment included IV administration of lactated Ringer's solution. During hospitalization, the horse developed ventricular tachycardia. Serum potassium concentrations were within reference limits; however, assessment of total body potassium stores was not performed. Resolution of the arrhythmia occurred with further fluid treatment and potassium supplementation. Cardiac arrhythmias should be considered in horses in which fluid and electrolyte disturbances are evident after exhaustive exercise.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Electrocardiography / veterinary
  • Fluid Therapy / veterinary
  • Horse Diseases / etiology*
  • Horse Diseases / therapy
  • Horses
  • Male
  • Physical Exertion*
  • Potassium / therapeutic use
  • Tachycardia, Ventricular / etiology
  • Tachycardia, Ventricular / therapy
  • Tachycardia, Ventricular / veterinary*
  • Water-Electrolyte Imbalance / complications
  • Water-Electrolyte Imbalance / etiology
  • Water-Electrolyte Imbalance / veterinary

Substances

  • Potassium