It is highly prevalent and often fatal. One of the leading reasons for colic's high fatality rate is the development of endotoxemia.
Endotoxins are toxic components of the bacteria that reside in the intestines of all animals.
If the intestinal wall is damaged, endotoxins escape into the bloodstream, causing massive stimulation of the horse's natural defense mechanisms and the release of mediators that decrease cardiovascular performance. Morris Animal Foundation is sponsoring several studies investigating endotoxemia in relation to colic. She hypothesizes that endotoxins are in the bloodstream of 25 percent to 40 percent of horses with colic that are admitted to university clinics for surgery, Endotoxemic horses should receive specific treatments before surgery to counteract the effects of this over stumulation of the inflammatory system. These treatments are expensive and must be used early. Dr. Trim suggests that manipulation of the intestine during colic surgery promotes the movement of harmful endotoxins.