EQUINE

🌟🐴 Welcome to the NAVLE Prep Notes: Equine Endocrinology on AllVetsLink! 🧠💉

Dive into the hormonal world of the horse—from PPID (Equine Cushing’s) and Equine Metabolic Syndrome to insulin dysregulation and thyroid disorders. These notes break down complex endocrine conditions into clear, test-ready content designed to boost your confidence for the NAVLE.

📚 Whether you’re reviewing diagnostic strategies or treatment protocols, this section is your go-to for mastering equine endocrinology. Let’s make these tricky topics easier—one gland at a time! 💪🔬

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Notes:

Equine Cushing's Disease

Equine Cushing’s Disease, or Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID), is the most common endocrine disorder in older horses. It results from hyperplasia or adenoma formation in the pars intermedia of the pituitary gland, leading to excess production of ACTH and cortisol dysregulation. Clinical signs include hirsutism, laminitis, muscle wasting, PU/PD, and increased susceptibility to infections. Understanding PPID’s pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management is essential for NAVLE success and equine practice.

Equine Hypothyroidism

Equine Hypothyroidism is an uncommon and often overdiagnosed condition, typically associated with congenital cases in foals or secondary to iodine imbalance or goitrogen exposure in broodmares. Clinical signs in foals may include weakness, limb deformities, mandibular prognathism, and delayed ossification. In adults, true hypothyroidism is rare. Understanding the pathophysiology, diagnostic pitfalls, and when to suspect this disorder is important for accurate NAVLE preparation and clinical decision-making.