Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Generalized steatitis in a miniature horse filly with laminitis and a positive outcome at 18-month follow-up.
- Journal:
- The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne
- Year:
- 2025
- Authors:
- Johnson, Acacia et al.
- Affiliation:
- Pilchuck Veterinary Hospital · United States
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A 12-month-old miniature horse filly was brought to the vet because she had laminitis (a painful hoof condition), suspected lymphangitis (inflammation of the lymph vessels), and a fever. Initial tests suggested an infection, but an ultrasound indicated she had generalized steatitis (inflammation of fat tissue), which was later confirmed through a tissue sample. After treatment, the filly made a full recovery and continued to improve over the next 18 months. This case highlights that generalized steatitis is rare in miniature horses in North America, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, the outcome can be very positive.
Abstract
A 12-month-old miniature horse filly was presented because of laminitis, suspected lymphangitis, and pyrexia. Although the filly's initial physical examination and diagnostic tests suggested an infectious etiology, ultrasonographic findings were suspicious for generalized steatitis. This was confirmedhistopathology. The filly experienced full recovery with continued resolution of clinical signs at 18 mo after presentation. This case included aspects similar to those of previously reported clinical presentations, as well as long-term follow-up in a breed that is not overrepresented, providing additional documentation of an uncommon condition in a miniature horse in North America. Key clinical message: Generalized steatitis is an uncommon condition in equids in North America. This case provided an example to aid in recognition, diagnosis, and treatment associated with a favorable outcome.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41584239/