Gastric Ulcers in Horses

 

EGUS – EQUINE GASTRIC ULCER SYNDROME IS DIAGNOSED AS EITHER:

1. ESGD – Equine Squamous Gastric Disease
2. EGGD – Equine Glandular Gastric Disease

 

1. Equine Squamous Gastric Disease (ESGD)

• Affects the upper, non-glandular or squamous region of the stomach
• Measured on a scale of 1-4
• Occur in response to risk factors inherent in domestication and intensive management
• Result of prolonged exposure to the normal hydrochloric acid in the stomach
• Can be secondary to EGGD
• Only identified via endoscopy 

Risk Factors Busy competition/travelling schedules Exercising with an empty stomach Gastric compression, caused by increased intra-abdominal pressure Changes to routine Low forage, high concentrate diets Intensive training Early weaning

Ongoing Management Omeprazole products Fibre pre exercise Low starch – high fibre diets Feeding little and often Preparing for stressful situations

2. Equine Glandular Gastric Disease (EGGD)

• Affects the lower, glandular or pyloric region of the stomach
• Measured on a scale of 1-4
• Cause is more complex than ESGD
• Can be the result of a breakdown of protective factors, primarily Mucas
• Usually slower to heal and can require prolonged/multiple treatments
• Only identified via endoscopy

Risk Factors High intensity exercise more than 5 times per week Breed – show jumping warmbloods are a high risk Stress Anti inflammatory drugs More than 3 riders

Ongoing Management Omeprazole products in combination with sucralfete Identify triggers Improving mucus quantity/quality Rest days – at least 2 x per week Minimise caregivers/riders Low starch diet