The use of handheld lactate monitors in equine practice

Authors: Feary D
Publication: Proceedings of the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) Annual Conferences, Volume 2014 AVA Annual Conference, Perth, Issue Equine, May 2014
Publisher: Australian Veterinary Association

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Abstract: The clinical value of lactate measurement is now well recognised in the evaluation and management of critically ill equine patients. Lactate concentrations in blood and body fluids can be measured rapidly and inexpensively in the field or stall-side with acceptable accuracy using portable lactate analysers. With a good understanding of lactate physiology and its clinical application, measuring blood lactate as a routine part of initial evaluation of equine emergencies can be invaluable in determining the need for referral, making recommendations to clients about prognosis, and monitoring response to therapy.

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