Endocrinological diseases
Endocrinological examinations: Horses in modern husbandry are getting significantly older and suffer from so-called diseases of civilization, as a result of which endocrinological diseases in horses are on the increase. The two most important ones are described in more detail below:
Older animals often suffer from Equine Cushing's Syndrome (ECS), which is a degeneration of the pituitary gland (Fig. 1). This leads to weight and muscle loss, coat changes, laminitis and the increased occurrence of secondary diseases. Various blood tests are offered at the clinic (e.g. measurement of the hormone ACTH) to diagnose the disease and check the success of the therapy. In cases of doubt, a dexamethasone suppression test can also be carried out and x-rays of the toe can be taken to rule out laminitis. Although treatment with pergolide is necessary for life, it enables many horses to live for years without symptoms.
Overweight horses often suffer from Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS), a disease related to diabetes in humans (Fig. 2). Various tests, e.g. the combined glucose-insulin tolerance test, can be used to detect insulin resistance and investigate the severity of the disease. Laminitis is also a dreaded complication of EMS that should be clarified. In addition to a diet and exercise program, it is also possible to treat the disease with thyroid hormones.