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Updated: Jul 1, 2026
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Immunolabelling Myofiber Degeneration in Muscle Biopsies
Published on: December 5, 2019
Pathologic findings in equine muscle (excluding polysaccharide storage): a necropsy study
1College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA. Beth.Valentine@oregonstate.edu
Summary
Skeletal muscle lesions are common in equids, with 65% of animals showing abnormalities. Chronic myopathic changes and generalized muscle atrophy were the most frequent findings in horses and ponies.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Equine Medicine
- Muscle Biology
Background:
- Skeletal muscle disorders in equids are a significant concern in veterinary diagnostics.
- Postmortem examinations provide valuable insights into the prevalence and types of equine muscle pathologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of skeletal muscle lesions in a large cohort of equids.
- To identify common causes and types of muscle pathology in horses, ponies, donkeys, and mules.
Main Methods:
- Gross and histopathologic examination of skeletal muscle from 229 equids.
- Samples stained with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) for glycogen analysis.
- Evaluation of lesions including myonecrosis, atrophy, and specific myopathic changes.
Main Results:
- Muscle lesions were detected in 65% of equids.
- Chronic myopathic change (15.7%) and generalized muscle atrophy (13.1%) were the most common findings.
- Various causes of myonecrosis were identified, including endotoxic injury, fractures, and infections; protozoa and denervation atrophy were also noted.
Conclusions:
- Skeletal muscle lesions are highly prevalent in equids undergoing postmortem examination.
- Histopathologic evaluation using HE and PAS staining is crucial for accurate equine muscle disease diagnosis.
- Understanding lesion prevalence aids in diagnosing and managing equine muscle conditions.
