Christy Malazdrewich, DVM, MVSc, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, assistant clinical professor at the University of Minnesota, discussed metabolic problems at Horseman’s Day at the 50th annual American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Convention in Denver, Colo., Dec. 4-8, 2004. She gave clear-cut descriptions of two baffling conditions–Cushing’s disease and metabolic syndrome. She opened with this explanation: “Although the two disorders feature some striking clinical similarities–most notably a predisposition to development of chronic laminitis–the underlying disease biology is quite different in each case and successful management requires that the equine veterinarian distinguish between them.”

She first dealt with Cushing’s disease–a disorder of the pituitary gland that results in hormonal imbalances