On the bilirrubin serum level in throughbreed horses with special reference to variations due to nuttaliosis

Abstract

Normal thoroughbred horses in the process of training at the São Paulo Jockey Club. When submitted both to direct and indirect bilirubin serum tests yelded values that were respectively 0,71 ± 0,30 and 2,33 ± 0,72 mg/100 ml. The indirect bilirubin level from animals with nuttaliosis was rather increased; there was however a considerable variation due probably to the phase of the disease. In chronic cases hyperbilirrubinaemia was not detected. As an objetive criterium for judging if horses which have recently been under treatment for nuttaliosis might be returned to training activities, the AA. suggest serum bilirubin determinations.