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Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID)
Endocrine and MetabolicEquineNew
Key Points
  • Pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID) is a common endocrinopathy of equids, caused by degeneration of hypothalamic dopaminergic neurons
  • Most commonly seen in older (>15 years old), native horses or ponies
  • Key clinical signs include hypertrichosis, delayed coat shedding, polyuria, polydipsia, muscle wasting and recurrent infections / laminitis
    • Laminitis risk is also increased by the fact that many horses with PPID also have concurrent insulin dysregulation
  • Diagnosis is primarily based on clinical presentation, basal ACTH levels and TRH stimulation tests
    • Must use seasonally-adjusted reference intervals!
  • Pergolide is the mainstay of treatment
  • PPID is not curable so successful management requires lifelong monitoring, dietary control, laminitis prevention and good geriatric horse care
Differential Diagnoses
  1. Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS)
  2. Dental disease
  3. Neoplasia
  4. Malnutrition
Overview
Aetiology
Clinical Signs
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Resources
Overview

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Aetiology

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Clinical Signs

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Diagnosis

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Treatment

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Prevention

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Resources

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Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →