Endocrinopathic laminitis.
Authors: McGowan
Journal: The Veterinary clinics of North America. Equine practice
Summary
# Endocrinopathic Laminitis: A Clinical Perspective McGowan's analysis reveals that endocrine dysfunction—rather than trauma or weight-bearing overload—is the dominant underlying cause of naturally occurring laminitis in the field, with equine Cushing's syndrome (ECS) and equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) accounting for the majority of cases. The review emphasises that conventional diagnostic and treatment protocols often fail because clinicians focus on managing the laminitic episode itself rather than identifying the hormonal abnormalities driving lamellar failure. The practical implication is clear: ruling out mechanical and inflammatory triggers must precede or occur alongside systematic screening for endocrinopathies, including insulin dysregulation and cortisol excess, if management is to address root causes rather than merely symptoms. This paradigm shift has significant consequences for farriery and veterinary rehabilitation strategies, which should be tailored according to the underlying endocrine diagnosis rather than applied generically. For nutritionists and coaching staff, recognising that many laminitic horses are metabolically compromised fundamentally changes recommendations around feed type, pasture management, and exercise protocols.
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Practical Takeaways
- •When evaluating laminitis cases in the field, prioritize screening for endocrine disorders (ECS and EMS) as these are the most common underlying causes
- •Develop a systematic approach to exclude non-endocrine causes (inflammation, weight-bearing issues) before or concurrently with endocrine testing to improve treatment outcomes
- •Focus management strategies on identifying and treating the underlying endocrine condition rather than treating laminitis as an isolated problem
Key Findings
- •Endocrinopathic laminitis is the predominant form of laminitis occurring in field settings rather than during hospitalization or severe illness
- •Equine Cushing syndrome and equine metabolic syndrome are the prevalent causes of endocrinopathic laminitis
- •Exclusion of inflammatory and weight-bearing causes improves diagnostic accuracy for identifying underlying endocrine conditions