Does Your Horse Have PPID?
Does Your Horse Have PPID?
Pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID, formerly known as equine Cushing’s disease) is the most common endocrine disorder of older equids. It affects 20-30% of horses over age 15, though veterinarians have diagnosed it in horses younger than 10. The disease develops when the neurons in the hypothalamus at the base of the brain deteriorate and fail to regulate the pituitary gland’s par intermedia. As a result, the pars intermedia produces excess levels of various hormones that cause the classic clinical signs of PPID shown here.
PPID Clinical Signs
Click through the slideshow to see examples.
Delayed or lack of seasonal shedding, loss of muscle mass/topline and a "pot-bellied" appearance
Photo: Brenda Wahler
Long, wavy/curly hair
Photo: iStock
Chronic infections, including skin issues and hoof abscesses; recurrent laminitis
Photo: Kevin Thompson/The Horse
Abnormal Sweating
Photo: Frank Sorge/www.ARND.NL
Lethargy or reduced athletic performance
Photo: iStock
Increased water intake and urination
Photo: iStock
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