Critical Facts Case 3

Swollen right hind fetlock Ð Indicates problem with specific anatomical area
Nursing normally- seems to indicate no systemic inflammation going on- would 
probably cause foal to stop nursing due to cytokine release.
Foal is very lame on right hind leg and refuses to use it/ Resents palpation of 
fetlock area Ð Indicates painful process occurring.  
Owner thinks mare might have stepped on- does not explain whether owner saw the 
foal being stepped on or if the owner just thinks that is what happened.  Does 
not rule out other causes of lameness and swelling.
TPR is abnormal.  Temp and pulse OK, resp rate is high (range 20-40).
Pitting edema indicates many inflammatory factors present in the fluid, causing 
it to be more viscous and not fill in the pits formed by pressing on the area.  
Swelling is around fetlock on both sides of the joint, which probably indicates 
the location of the problem. The fact that it is higher on the proximal joint 
than the distal part may indicate a problem above the joint or fluid in the 
tendon sheath. 
No instability- seems that nothing supporting the joint is completely torn but 
may still be injured.
No crepitance- no sign of advanced osteoarthritis or bacteria producing gas in 
the area.