Abnormal Plasma Neuroactive Progestagen Derivatives in Ill, Neonatal Foals Presented to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Aims To determine the pregnane profile of foals with neonatal maladjustment syndrome (NMS) and compare it with that of healthy controls and sick, non‐NMS foals. Methods Thirty‐two foals with a clinical diagnosis of NMS, 12 foals with other neonatal disorders and 10 healthy control foals were selected for the study. Heparinised blood samples were collected from each group of foals and pregnane and androgen concentrations were determined using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry at 0, 24 and 48 h of age. Results Healthy foals showed a significant decrease in pregnane concentrations over the first 48 h of life (P