Septic arthritis in a Thoroughbred foal significantly reduces the likelihood the animal will race, according to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Glasgow in Scotland and veterinarians with Rossdale and Partners in England. The scientists evaluated the medical records of 69 foals treated for septic arthritis and compared each foal’s racing record to at least one of its siblings.

Based on a report that appeared in the Equine Veterinary Journal, the researchers found that foals with septic arthritis were less likely to start in a race compared to the controls (their siblings). Even discounting foals that died, the survivors still were less likely to ever compete.

The presence of multi-system disease was associated with a decreased likelihood of surviving or being discharged from the hospital. However, these foals were no less likely to start than other foals with septic arthritis. Foals discharged following treatment for septic arthritis took significantly longer to start in their first race compared to their siblings.

The scientists found that if the infection was eliminated from the synovial space before irreversible damage occurred, then almost half of foals discharged after being treated for septic arthritis started in at least one race