[Recurrent or chronic urticaria in thoroughbred race-horses: clinical observations].

The research paper discusses the phenomenon of chronic urticaria, believed to be a food allergy, in thoroughbred race-horses during training and how allergologic techniques may be necessary to ascertain the cause in stubborn cases. Administering intradermal skin tests with fresh allergenic food can induce associated reactions such as urticaria and enteritis-like symptoms in some horses. The article also reveals that most cases saw a quick and enduring alleviation of symptoms upon the elimination of the responsible allergen, based on a study of 22 cases.

Chronic Urticaria in Thoroughbred Race-Horses

• The researchers observed that recurrent or chronic urticaria, a condition characterised by hives and severe itching, appeared to be a food allergy in thoroughbred race-horses. This condition was notably prevalent during the training season.
• The study suggests that the strenuous regime and changes in diet during the training season potentially trigger these allergic reactions.
• The focus was to evaluate the complains of recurring or chronic hives on these race-horses and investigate the potential triggers.

Allergologic Techniques and Their Uses

• The study indicates that allergologic techniques might be needed in identifying the cause of this condition, especially in resistant cases that are hard to diagnose or treat.
• These techniques might include intradermal skin tests by injecting small amounts of allergenic food substances under the horse’s skin.
• This procedure helps to identify if a horse experiences an allergic reaction to specific types of food or substances, hence identifying the allergen.

Relationship Between Food Allergens and Urticaria

• Data gathered from the study showed that administering intradermal skin tests with fresh allergenic food could induce syndromic reaction such as urticaria and symptoms similar to enteritis in some horses. Enteritis is an inflammation of the intestine, often accompanied by diarrhea.
• This reaction underlines the connection between food allergens and urticaria in the observed thoroughbred race-horses.

Impact of Allergen Elimination

• A significant finding from this research was that in most cases, an elimination of the allergen responsible resulted in rapid and long-lasting relief from chronic urticaria.
• The evidence suggests that managing the diet of these horses and identifying as well as avoiding food substances they are allergic to, can greatly reduce occurrences of chronic urticaria, thus improving the overall health and performance of these race-horses.