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Current insights into equine neuroaxonal dystrophy/equine degenerative myeloencephalopathy.

Authors :
Young AE
Finno CJ
Source :
Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997) [Vet J] 2024 Jun; Vol. 305, pp. 106129. Date of Electronic Publication: 2024 May 10.
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

Equine neuroaxonal dystrophy/equine degenerative myeloencephalopathy (eNAD/EDM) is an inherited neurodegenerative disease associated with vitamin E deficiency in the first year of life. It is the second most common cause of spinal ataxia in horses euthanized for neurologic disease. Equine NAD/EDM is characterized by neurologic signs including a symmetric proprioceptive ataxia (> grade 2/5) and a wide-base stance at rest. There are currently no antemortem tests for eNAD/EDM in any breed. Conclusive diagnosis requires postmortem histologic evaluation of the brainstem and spinal cord at necropsy. Research studies on antemortem biomarkers and genetic testing are ongoing. The development of a genetic test for eNAD/EDM would have widespread impact, even if it were breed specific. Currently, the best approach to eNAD/EDM is to focus on preventing cases by providing pregnant mares and foals with access to pasture. Alternatively, dams' diets can be supplemented with high doses of water-soluble RRR-α-tocopherol during the last trimester of gestation, with continued supplementation of foals through the first two years of life. It is important to measure horses' baseline serum vitamin E levels prior to supplementing. While considered generally safe, oversupplementation of vitamin E is possible and can lead to coagulopathies.<br />Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest None of the authors of this paper has a financial or personal relationship with other people or organisations that could inappropriately influence or bias the content of the paper.<br /> (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1532-2971
Volume :
305
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997)
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
38734404
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tvjl.2024.106129