The ‘Skinny’ on Skin Conditions

Diagnosing skin diseases is probably one of the greatest challenges to horse handlers and veterinarians alike.
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Dermatologic conditions in horses are notoriously difficult to diagnose and treat; thankfully, veterinary researchers are continually learning more about equine skin.

Diagnosing skin diseases is probably one of the greatest challenges to handlers and veterinarians alike. With such a variety of conditions all looking so similar, it's no wonder common names like "scratches," "greasy heel," and "girth itch" have emerged. These catch-all terms sound like diagnoses, but they actually only describe the clinical signs. Determining which disease is the real cause of that "greasy heel" requires a specially trained eye and, usually, a laboratory analysis.

"Equine skin is particularly sensitive, much like human skin, so there's just no room for experimenting," says Patrick Bourdeau, DVM, PhD, Dipl.EVPC, professor and head of the parasitology, dermatology, mycology, and zoology unit at the Veterinary School of Nantes, in France. "Dermatologic problems require the right treatment from the start, and that generally means a veterinary examination."

The following are descriptions of some of the more common equine dermatologic problems, grouped according to cause

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Passionate about horses and science from the time she was riding her first Shetland Pony in Texas, Christa Lesté-Lasserre writes about scientific research that contributes to a better understanding of all equids. After undergrad studies in science, journalism, and literature, she received a master’s degree in creative writing. Now based in France, she aims to present the most fascinating aspect of equine science: the story it creates. Follow Lesté-Lasserre on Twitter @christalestelas.

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