Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome
Equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) is a common condition encountered in veterinary practice among Thoroughbred performance horses. Recent studies have shown up to 90% prevalence of gastric ulcers in training racehorses and other performance horses. Risk factors contributing to the development of EGUS include stress, NSAID (phenylbutazone “Bute”, Banamine) administration, strenuous exercise, anxious disposition, and management factors such as intermittent feeding schedules and high concentrate diets.
EGUS is caused by gastric acid-induced damage to the inner lining of the stomach (mucosa). Clinical signs may include chronic colic, poor appetite, weight loss, poor performance, and irritable disposition. A definitive diagnosis is made upon endoscopic examination of the stomach; however a presumptive diagnosis is often reached based on clinical signs and response to treatment. Treatment of EGUS involves dietary and management modifications, as well as administration of acid neutralizers (buffers), medications that inhibit acid secretion in the stomach, and medications that protect the gastric mucosa.
Management strategies are aimed at providing adequate roughage in the diet, which helps to maintain normal pH in the stomach, and limiting exposure to stressful conditions. Frequent feedings or continuous access to roughage should be provided to promote a healthy gastric environment. Feeding of acid neutralizers (magnesium oxide, calcium carbonate) provide short-term buffering of acid in the stomach. Drugs such as omeprazole (Gastrogard, Ulcergard), cimetidine, and ranitidine inhibit the secretion of acid in the stomach. Mucosal protectants such as sucralfate and bismuth help to coat the stomach mucosa and promote the healing of ulcers.
As
Thoroughbreds are utilized in a variety of athletic events and
disciplines, EGUS is likely to be a highly prevalent disease amongst
this breed. With proper management and prevention, however, the
incidence can be minimized and the negative impact on the industry
decreased.
