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Equine Cushings Disease
Cushing’s, more accurately termed pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID), is an age-related degenerative condition involving the pituitary gland. This causes alterations in hormone production, resulting in the whole body being affected. PPID prevalence increases with age, reaching 20% prevalence in horses over 15 years old. Clinical signs can vary but classic signs of horses affected by PPID include;
- An increased coat length
- Abnormal (slow or patchy) coat shedding or failure to shed
- Muscle loss
Other signs include retained guard hairs, abnormal sweating, chronic infections, hyperinsulinemia associated laminitis and changes in demeanour.
How is Cushings diagnosed?
PPID (Cushing’s) is routinely diagnosed by collecting a blood sample and checking the levels of a hormone called ACTH (a marker of pituitary gland function). Elevations of ACTH in horses with consistent clinical signs confirms diagnosis of PPID and management strategies can be implemented, often with excellent results.
How is my horse tested for Cushings?
A blood sample is required to test for Cushings. The sample is sent to the laboratory and then our equine vets will discuss the results and management with you.
The ‘Talk About Laminitis‘ scheme is a wonderful initiative from Boehringer Ingelheim enabling owners to one voucher a year for their horse to be tested for FREE, for diagnosis or treatment monitoring. The voucher covers the laboratory fee (£31.80), and this year we at Station House Vets are reducing the price of the blood sample by 25% (only £35) so only your usual visit fee and the reduced blood sample fee apply.
- 25% off blood sample = £35 (instead of £47.25)
- FREE laboratory test
- Usual visit fee applies
Why do Boehringer offer vouchers for free testing? – Boehringer Ingelheim make Prascend which is the licensed treatment for PPID. They use the results to collate data aiding in further the research of the disease.
These vouchers are available year round, however we recommended testing in the Autumn months as there are seasonal variations in ACTH. For our clients we will contact you when your voucher is due. If you’ve never had your tested and they are over 15 years old you will be eligible for a free voucher too.
Results and management
Following ACTH results we can discuss best management approach with you. With proper control of PPID, clinical signs often resolve and tapering of medication can be performed based on repeat blood samples evaluating ACTH levels.
In some early cases, ACTH levels may appear normal although the horse could still be suffering from PPID in which case other blood tests are available.
Booking a blood sample and test
If you are interested in making the most of this initiative, you can either email admin@stationhousevets.co.uk or call the equine team on 01653 618303.
Our vets are also happy to answer any questions you may have.