Abstract :
[en] The objectives of this work were to evaluate the optimal body size variable, and to determine mathematical model that best fits echocardiographic measurements to body size in the equine species.
150 horses of various breeds, aged 1 week to 17 years old, body weight (BW) 38 to 890 kg, and free from cardiac disease were used in this study. Based on their age (i.e. younger or older than 2 years), animals were separated into 2 groups.
In each horse, the body weight (BW), height at withers (HT), thoracic circumference (TC) and the body length (BL) were measured, the body surface area (BSA) was calculated, and a standard two-dimensional and M-mode echocardiography was performed allowing classic cardiac measurements to be taken. Correlations between each echocardiographic measurement and each of the anthropometric variables were assessed via a Pearson’s product-moment analysis and using linear, logarithmic, and power regression analysis in all animals and within the 2 groups.
The dimensional, but not the functional, echocardiographic measurements showed a close correlation with all body size variables, especially during growth. The relationship between cardiac measurements and body size was best described using power regression models with TC as the anthropometric variable, but the relationship was also very accurately described using BW, BSA, or BL.
In the equine species, dimensional echocardiographic reference values should be established using power regression equations on TC. Such a correction for body size could increase the diagnostic value of echocardiography in equine cardiology.
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