Endocrinopathic laminitis.

The research article details how endocrinopathic laminitis, a form of laminitis commonly found in field conditions, is predominantly caused by Equine Cushing’s Syndrome (ECS) and Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS). The paper emphasizes improving laminitis management strategies by identifying and treating these underlying endocrine conditions rather than focusing on inflammatory or weight-bearing causes.

Introduction

The research focuses on endocrinopathic laminitis, a specific type of laminitis which is largely identified in field conditions as opposed to those occurring during hospitalization or during severe illness. The paper highlights the common causes of this type of laminitis – Equine Cushing’s Syndrome (ECS) and Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS).

The role of Equine Cushing’s Syndrome and Equine Metabolic Syndrome

• The paper emphasizes ECS and EMS as primary causes of endocrinopathic laminitis, dismissing weight bearing or inflammatory causes as major contributing factors. ECS is a disorder prominent in horses caused by the formation of a tumour in the pituitary gland which leads to excessive production of certain hormones. This hormonal imbalance can cause severe conditions such as laminitis.
• Similarly, EMS is another metabolic disorder found in equines that can lead to obesity, insulin resistance and laminitis. The study identifies these endocrine conditions as major contributors to the on-set of laminitis in horses in field conditions.

Improving laminitis management strategies

• The researchers argue for a shift in focus when it comes to treating laminitis, advocating the identification and treatment of underlying endocrine conditions like ECS and EMS rather that concentrating on inflammatory or weight bearing causes.
• The essence of this conclusion lies in the observation that successfully treating ECS and EMS can improve the overall condition of the horse, significantly reducing the impact of laminitis.