Endometrial lipogranulomas in a mare

Abstract

Lipogranulomas are localised tissue reactions to exogenous or endogenous lipids. This case report describes and depicts, grossly and histologically, the unusual finding of lipogranulomas in the uterus of a mare. Hyperechogenic areas were noted in the uterine body during routine ultrasonography of the reproductive tract; investigative hysteroscopy showed yellow-white, nodule-like structures in the corresponding regions of the uterus. They were biopsied, and histopathology confirmed the presence of lipogranulomas. The mare subsequently conceived and delivered a healthy foal after a gestation length of 330 days. Hence, the lipogranulomas, chiefly in the uterine body, did not appear to be detrimental to the mare's ability to conceive and carry a foal to term. In the absence of any endogenous factor known to cause lipogranulomas in other species, namely, systemic disease, trauma or a high intake of dietary fats, the most likely cause was exogenous lipids introduced into the uterus following an intrauterine antibiotic treatment containing enrofloxacin and amoxycillin in an oil-based cream vehicle. It is hypothesised that damage to the endometrium caused by enrofloxacin allowed lipids in the vehicle to cause a reaction in the underlying tissue, resulting in the development of lipogranulomas.