IDPPID.com offers resources, research, testing program access and more for veterinarians

One of the most common endocrine disorders in horses, pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID), is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that can impact a horse’s quality of life. As part of a commitment to build a greater understanding of PPID within the veterinary community, Boehringer Ingelheim developed IDPPID.com to serve as a hub for valuable PPID resources. On the site, veterinarians can access general information about the disease and its clinical signs, updates on diagnosis and management, forage testing resources, and some of the latest PPID research. 

“PPID is more prevalent than people may think,” said Steve Grubbs, DVM, Ph.D., DACVIM, Technical Services veterinarian at Boehringer. “By providing veterinarians with these resources, the hope is that the clinical signs will be recognized at an earlier state, be tested and receive a diagnosis earlier.” 

To aid veterinarians in the diagnosis process, easy-to-follow baseline adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and thyrotropin-releasing-hormone (TRH) stimulation testing instructions are available on the site. For horses with early clinical signs, a TRH stimulation test is recommended. For horses with advanced clinical signs, evaluating baseline ACTH is recommended. If ACTH levels are normal, a TRH stimulation test should be performed. 

The testing process and confirming a diagnosis of PPID with just the beginning of a lifelong disease management strategy. IDPPID.com hosts downloadable resources that are applicable to veterinarians working with horses at all stages of the disease, including diagnosis, management of clinical signs and treatment. The resources include guidance on disease management decision-making, interpreting laboratory results, and caring for a horse with PPID. Many of these resources are horse owner friendly, and can be shared with a veterinarian’s clients. 

Additional horse owner – friendly resources include information on 360-degree management of the disease, to effectively manage a horse with a confirmed diagnosis of PPID, a comprehensive approach to medical care, diet evaluation including forage and feed analysis, hoof and teeth care, grooming, deworming, vaccination and exercise is essential. 

Forage testing and diet evaluation are imperative to the successful management of disease, due to the specific requirements and/or dietary restrictions used to manage PPID. For this reason, Boehringer has provided an easy-access link to forage-testing resources. A sample submission form is available on IDPPID.com that will take you to Equi-Analytical Laboratory Service Site, where you can find instructions on how to take a forage sample. 

Boehringer has also launched a testing program to help veterinarians better recognize the clinical signs and manage the disease that can be accessed through the site. This year’s spring testing program runs from March 19 – June 25, while the fall program runs from August 13 – October 22. 

To learn more and to access these valuable resources, visit IDPPID.com 

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