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Hypoglycemic seizures in a Shetland pony.
The Cornell Veterinarian
|April 1, 1983
Summary
This study reports the first case of hypoglycemic seizures in a horse caused by a pancreatic tumor. A Shetland pony experienced seizures due to organic hyperinsulinism from a pancreatic islet cell adenoma.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Endocrinology
- Equine Health
Background:
- Seizures in horses can be linked to various neurological and metabolic disorders.
- Organic hyperinsulinism, characterized by excessive insulin secretion, can lead to hypoglycemia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cause of recurrent seizures in a Shetland pony.
- To diagnose and characterize the underlying metabolic disorder leading to seizures.
Main Methods:
- Clinical examination and monitoring of plasma glucose and serum insulin levels during seizures and glucose tolerance tests.
- Oral glucose tolerance test and intravenous glucagon tolerance test were performed.
- Post-mortem examination of the pancreas for pathological findings.
Main Results:
- The pony exhibited marked hypoglycemia (16-19 mg/100 ml) and elevated serum insulin levels (86.0-97.7 microU/ml) during seizures.
- Diagnostic tests indicated organic hyperinsulinism of pancreatic origin.
- A pancreatic islet cell adenoma and beta-cell hyperplasia were identified in the pancreas.
Conclusions:
- This is the first reported case of hypoglycemic seizures in a horse secondary to a pancreatic neoplasm and hyperinsulinism.
- Pancreatic tumors should be considered in the differential diagnosis of recurrent seizures in horses.