Periarticular subchondral “bone cysts” in horses.

The research investigates a specific bone lesion called “periarticular subchondral bone cyst” in horses, based on 14 case studies conducted between 1949 and 1967.

Participants and Methodology

• The study involved 14 horses which were diagnosed during the years 1949 to 1967.
• The sample size may seem small but is representative, considering it was selected from 6,500 horses examined for lameness at the Animal Hospital in Halsingborg.
• The horses ranged in ages from 5 months to 5 years, with a majority of the horses being 2 years old or younger.
• Eleven of the cases were stallions or geldings.

Clinical and Radiologic Findings

• The clinical history of these horses usually showed intermittent lameness of varying degrees.
• Physical symptoms observed included swelling, pain upon palpation, and an increased amplitude of the digital pulse.
• Most of the cysts were localized in the ankles, a region in proximity to the coffin joint.
• In a few cases, the cysts were connected to a joint, as demonstrated by radiographic imaging.
• The cysts were typically solitary, meaning only one cyst occurred per horse, except for two instances where cases were found in both hind legs of the horse.
• The most common location for these cysts was the periarticular region of the second phalange.

Radiographic Observations

• The radiographic picture provided was cumulative of all horses, and the cysts appeared as well-defined, radiolucent areas surrounded by more or less sclerotic bone.

Treatment and Follow-up

• Treatment for the condition varied and typically included rest during the acute stage, dietary advice, vitamins, and deworming.
• Some of the horses were also given anabolic steroids as part of their treatment.
• Several of the horses were re-examined after varying lengths of time to assess the effectiveness of the treatment.