You've probably heard of it, and if you see a horse with long, curly fur, irregular fat deposits, weakness, and possibly even laminitis, you immediately think: That must be Cushing's! But it's not quite that simple, because Cushing's has very different symptoms and the diagnosis should not be made hastily.
Cushing's syndrome is a hormonal disorder that originates from a malfunction of the middle part of the pituitary gland (also known as the hypophysis). This is why the disease is also known internationally as "pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction" or PPID. This middle part of the pituitary gland, known as the adenohypophysis, is responsible for the production of cortisol in the adrenal cortex by releasing the precursor hormone ACTH. The malfunction causes the adrenal cortex to become overactive, leading to elevated cortisol levels in the blood. Cortisol is an important hormone in the horse's metabolism, which also influences the cardiovascular and immune systems.
The exact cause of the disease has not yet been fully researched. However, international scientists have now discovered that affected horses experience an increase in the size of the adenohypophysis due to reduced production of the neurotransmitter dopamine.it is believed that this dopamine deficiency is due to impaired detoxification function in the cells.
The first external signs are usually delayed coat change and a long, curly coat. Muscle wasting occurs and affected horses tire more quickly. Poorly healing wounds, emaciation, and fat deposits above the eyes and on the crest of the mane are also among the symptoms.cortisol also interferes with protein metabolism, inhibits insulin production and thus causes elevated blood sugar levels.
The symptoms at a glance:
If you notice one or more of the symptoms described above in your horse, please contact your veterinarian. They will be able to determine whether your horse has equine Cushing's syndrome based on the clinical symptoms and with the help of a blood test. The most common and simplest test currently available is the ACTH test. According to the latest studies, the ACTH test is most accurate between August and October, as the hormone is subject to seasonal fluctuations. There are two other tests that can also be used for diagnosis, depending on the condition of the patient. Discuss the exact procedure in each case with your veterinarian.
Equine Cushing's syndrome is an incurable disease, but its symptoms can be effectively controlled with a carefully tailored treatment and feeding plan, giving affected horses a better quality of life.
Medication is strongly recommended for horses with Cushing's disease to prevent serious complications such as laminitis. Treatment with a preparation specially approved for horses, which replaces the missing dopamine, inhibits the increased release of the precursor hormone ACTH and thus lowers the cortisol level in the blood. The appearance and quality of life of affected horses usually improves after 6 to 12 weeks.
Adequate treatment also includes coordinated health and feeding management. Regular hoof care, dental hygiene, vaccinations, and deworming should be standard practice for all horses, but particular attention should be paid to these aspects in Cushing's patients. Since nutritional status and disease stage vary from animal to animal, it is advisable to calculate the exact ration for the affected animal. In general, however, starch- and carbohydrate-rich feed such as grains, fruit, carrots, or grass should be avoided for Cushing's patients due to their effect on blood sugar levels. Good hay is an excellent source of raw fiber. This feed ration can be supplemented with numerous special feeds and feed supplements.
However, lifelong therapy and regular check-ups by a veterinarian are necessary to ensure that these horses remain symptom-free.
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