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Published on: November 21, 2013
Characterisation of headshaking syndrome--31 cases
1Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis 95616, USA.
Equine Veterinary Journal. Supplement
|September 15, 1999
Summary
Equine headshaking syndrome, often triggered by light, causes discomfort in horses. Treatment with cyproheptadine improved symptoms in most affected horses, suggesting neuropathic pain may be involved.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Equine Medicine
- Animal Behavior
Background:
- Headshaking syndrome in horses is a common, maturity-onset condition.
- Clinical signs include nose flipping, rubbing, sneezing, and a sensation of insects.
- The condition is often seasonal and recurring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical presentation and treatment outcomes of equine headshaking syndrome.
- To identify potential triggers and contributing factors for the condition.
Main Methods:
- Owners of 31 horses with headshaking syndrome completed a questionnaire.
- Data collected included history, onset, clinical signs, and treatment responses.
Main Results:
- Approximately 60% of cases were light-stimulated.
- Cyproheptadine treatment resulted in symptom improvement in 76% of horses.
- Clinical signs suggest neuropathic pain in the facial and muzzle areas.
Conclusions:
- Equine headshaking syndrome is often seasonal and light-provoked.
- Cyproheptadine demonstrates significant efficacy in managing symptoms.
- Neuropathic pain is a likely underlying mechanism for the observed clinical signs.
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