ABSTRACT
Clinical signs, which may accompany skull base or cranial injuries, include: hemorrhage from the ear, epistaxis, vestibular defects, and ataxia. Although radiology can confirm the presence of a fracture, movement of the horse to a suitable facility may be impossible until neurological signs have been stabilized or the horse is safe to be moved. Neurological signs can deteriorate after the horse has regained a standing position as a result of intracranial hemorrhage and inflammation. Mannitol, soluble corticosteroids, and diuretics (e.g. furosemide) have been used to prevent CNS edema. Broad-spectrum antibiotics should be administered to prevent transmission of pathogens from the guttural pouches into the meninges, which may communicate in the presence of a fracture.
