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Bladder Rupture in Late-Pregnancy Mares: Four Cases

R. Salcedo-Jiménez, D.G. Kenney, M.S. Dubois

Background
Bladder rupture in late-pregnancy mares is a rare but potentially fatal condition. It can occur due to fetal movement, trauma, or increased intra-abdominal pressure during gestation. Diagnosis is often delayed as clinical signs can be mistaken for colic or normal parturition discomfort. This case series describes four late-pregnancy broodmares diagnosed with bladder rupture, highlighting the diagnostic challenges and outcomes.

Methods
Four broodmares nearing or past their expected foaling dates were examined. Clinical presentations included colic signs (n = 3) and dystocia (n = 1). Diagnostic workup involved ultrasonography, abdominocentesis, peritoneal-to-serum creatinine ratio measurements, and cystoscopy. Treatment varied based on severity, with some mares undergoing surgical repair and others euthanized due to poor prognosis.

Results
All four mares had bladder rupture confirmed by imaging and cystoscopy. Three mares exhibited pollakiuria or hematuria prior to diagnosis. The mean peritoneal-to-serum creatinine ratio was 4.1, supporting uroperitoneum diagnosis. In three cases, initial examinations did not reveal free peritoneal fluid, delaying diagnosis by 2–3 days. Two mares underwent surgical repair and were discharged successfully, while two were euthanized due to complications.

Limitations
The study is limited by its small sample size and retrospective nature. Diagnosis was delayed in multiple cases, highlighting the challenge of early detection. Additionally, long-term follow-up of recovered mares was not available to assess long-term prognosis.

Conclusions
Bladder rupture in late-pregnancy mares is challenging to diagnose due to the overlap with normal periparturient discomfort. Increased vigilance is needed in broodmares with colic signs, pollakiuria, or hematuria. Early ultrasonographic monitoring and peritoneal fluid analysis are critical for timely diagnosis and intervention.

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