Aortic, mitral and tricuspid valvular dysplasia in a 7-month-old colt

A 7-month-old Warmblood cross colt was presented for the assessment of a laceration of the right hind pastern of 4-days duration. At presentation, the colt was in poor body condition and had a rough, dull coat. Cardiac auscultation revealed a grade 5/6 pansystolic murmur on the left side and grade 4/6 continuous murmur on the left and right sides and a regular cardiac rhythm. Electrocardiographic examination confirmed sinus tachycardia. Echocardiographic examination showed malformation of the aortic and mitral valves, with associated regurgitation and evidence of left atrial and ventricular volume overload. Dysplasia of the mitral, tricuspid and aortic valves was confirmed by post-mortem examination. Valvular dysplasia is a rare cause of cardiac failure in horses.