Pathophysiology of acute laminitis.
Authors: Moore, Allen, Clark
Journal: The Veterinary clinics of North America. Equine practice
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Pathophysiology of Acute Laminitis Moore, Allen and Clark's comprehensive review synthesises existing research on the mechanisms underlying acute laminitis, focusing particularly on vascular dysfunction within the equine digit. The authors propose that postcapillary vasoconstriction—a narrowing of small blood vessels downstream of the capillary bed—initiates a pathological cascade in which elevated hydrostatic pressure within capillaries drives fluid transudation into surrounding interstitial tissues. This fluid accumulation within the laminar tissues creates oedema and increased interstitial pressure, compromising both oxygen delivery and structural integrity of the laminae. Understanding this vascular basis for acute laminitis remains clinically significant for farriers, veterinarians and therapists, as therapeutic interventions targeting vasoconstriction—such as systemic vasodilators, cryotherapy, or techniques to improve digital circulation—rest upon this mechanistic foundation. Though published over three decades ago, this review established conceptual frameworks that continue to guide evidence-based management of one of equine practice's most economically and welfare-significant conditions.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Understanding the vascular mechanism of laminitis pathophysiology helps inform treatment strategies focused on improving digital circulation
- •Recognition that laminitis involves fluid accumulation in tissues suggests therapeutic approaches targeting edema reduction and vascular function may be beneficial
- •Early intervention to prevent or reverse postcapillary vessel constriction could be critical in managing acute cases
Key Findings
- •Acute laminitis onset may be due to constriction of postcapillary vessels in the digit
- •Postcapillary vessel constriction leads to increased capillary hydrostatic pressure
- •Increased capillary hydrostatic pressure causes fluid movement into the interstitial space