Diagnostic criteria for degenerative suspensory ligament desmitis in Peruvian Paso horses

Abstract

Degenerative suspensory ligament desmitis (DSLD) has arisen in recent years as a health issue of concern to breeders and owners of Peruvian Paso horses. Lack of understanding of this disease and a “gold-standard” antemortem test has led to widespread confusion and uncertainty in the diagnosis of the disease in these horses. Using observations and measurements from a group of horses with histologically confirmed DSLD and from an age-matched group of horses without evidence of DSLD, estimates of the sensitivity and specificity of various measurements were calculated. The results of these analyses suggested four steps for the diagnosis of DSLD when screening large numbers of horses and as part of pre-purchase examinations. These four steps included: palpation of the suspensory ligaments, observance of baseline lameness, fetlock flexion tests, and sonographic examinations of the suspensory ligament at mid-cannon and both branches. These four steps accurately provide the information needed to make a diagnosis of degenerative suspensory ligament desmitis in Peruvian Pasos.