206 PRACTICE OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 



What is the morbid anatomy? 



The cortical portion of the kidney is swollen and congested, 

 pressing on the tubules and pyramids, which become reddened and 

 congested, and in some cases producing capillary hemorrhage into 

 the pelvis. 



Under the microscope, the Malpighian bodies are prominent, 

 being swollen and congested. Epithelial casts may be seen from 

 the tubules. 



Give the symptoms of acute nephritis. 



If due to exposure, the symptoms are sudden. Chills with 

 slight fever may be present. The principal symptoms are referable 

 to the urine, which may be diminished in the beginning, high-col- 

 ored, containing blood, albumin, and casts of the tubes. 



On standing, a heavy deposit is noticed; the microscope shows 

 blood corpuscles, epithelium from the tubes and urinary passages, 

 together with casts, which are hyaline. 



Aneemia is an important symptom; dropsy is present, which 

 may be slight or extensive; the pulse is hard, the skin dry; there 

 is a rigidity of the back and a stiffness of gait, pain on pressure over 

 the lumbar region, whether that pressure be exerted externally 

 or per rectum. 



How is the diagnosis made? 



These cases are rare, but when present the symptoms should 

 be sufficient to enable a diagnosis to be made. 



What is the prognosis ? 



This varies with the symptoms presented and whether it be 

 primary or secondary. Death may occur in a few days or weeks, 

 or recovery take place within a month or two. 



Outline the treatment in acute nephritis. 



Perfect rest is essential. Blankets and bandages to aid in pro- 

 ducing sweating, which is of the utmost importance. 



Plenty of water should be given the animal to drink to wash 

 out the kidneys. 



Purges and diaphoretics are to be used to give as much rest 

 to the kidneys as possible. 



Treat the other symptoms as they arise, and if the disease be 

 secondary look after the disease with which this affection is asso- 

 ciated. The diuretics to be used are principally digitalis and stro- 



