Abstract

Chilean Creole mare, 25 years old, with bilateral support claudication in both forelimbs for 3 months. The clinical inspection showed signs of hypertrichosis, hirsutism, fat deposits at the base of the tail and neck, excessive sweating, muscular atrophy and visible horizontal rings in both hooves. In the radiological study of distal phalanges of forelimbs, septic pedal osteitis and subsolar abscesses were seen. Based on the clinical history, a dexamethasone suppression test was performed, obtaining conclusive Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) results. Cabergoline treatment was initiated at a dose of 2mg orally every 24 hours. After 3 months of therapy, a total resolution of the clinical signs was obtained and a normal response to the dexamethasone suppression test was observed. The patient was monitored for 30 months while continuing the treatment, without observing recurrence of the condition or adverse effects to the treatment.

Keywords:Equine; Carbegoline; Cushing’s disease; Pituitary

Abbreviations: PPID: Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction; AAEP: American Association of Equine Practitioners; ACTH: Adrenocorticotropic Hormone; POMC: Pro-Opiomelanocortin; α-MSH: Α-Melanocyte Stimulating Hormone