white-horse-waiting-in-stall-for-determine-ppid-diagnosis

Welcome to IDPPID

Pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID) is a progressive chronic neurodegenerative disorder that we are still working to understand. But recently, our knowledge about equine endocrine disorders has expanded – thanks to independent researchers such as the Equine Endocrinology Group (EEG), as well as dedicated research contributed by Boehringer Ingelheim.

In 2013, we established a testing program to gather epidemiological information concerning PPID, such as age, breed, sex, clinical signs and associated laboratory results at initial diagnosis. We wanted to look at these factors and their associations with adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and insulin values to increase our knowledge around the recognition and diagnosis of PPID.

woman with horse

Diagnosis of PPID: More than a blood test.

Diagnosing PPID requires a combination of patient history, observation of clinical signs, and confirmation with laboratory test results.

horse in stall

1. Building a Patient History

In conversations with horse owners and trainers, listen for historical information and clinical signs associated with PPID, such as:

  • Changes in attitude
  • Lethargy
  • Recurrent infections
vet and horse

2. Perform a Physical Exam

Identify and confirm clinical signs consistent with PPID. Determine if clinical signs are early or advanced.

test tubes

3. Laboratory Confirmation

If a horse has a medical history and clinical signs consistent with PPID, at a minimum the following should be evaluated:

  • ACTH
  • insulin
  • glucose

PARTICIPATE IN OUR IDPPID TESTING PROGRAM AND EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY

Together, we can build a greater understanding of PPID.

Your participation in the Boehringer Ingelheim IDPPID Testing Program will help the veterinary community learn more about the disease, recognize its clinical signs and refine the process of diagnosing horses with PPID.

Download PDF

IDPPID TESTING PROGRAM DETAILS