Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Hyperkalaemic periodic paralysis in Australian quarter horses.
- Journal:
- Australian veterinary journal
- Year:
- 1995
- Authors:
- Church, S
- Affiliation:
- University of Melbourne Veterinary Clinic and Hospital · Australia
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
In 1992, three Quarter Horse stallions and five of their eleven offspring were found to have a genetic condition called hyperkalaemic periodic paralysis, which causes muscle weakness and can lead to episodes of paralysis. This diagnosis was made based on their symptoms and high levels of potassium in their blood after they were given extra potassium. All the affected horses were related to a well-known American Quarter Horse named Impressive. There is also some evidence suggesting that at least three other affected Quarter Horse stallions may have been used for breeding in Australia. The study discusses the details of these horses and the overall number of affected horses in the country.
Abstract
Three Quarter Horse stallions and 5 of their 11 tested progeny were diagnosed as affected with the inherited autosomal dominant defect hyperkalaemic periodic paralysis in Victoria in 1992. The diagnoses were based on the appearance of clinical signs and associated increased plasma potassium concentrations in response to oral potassium loading. All affected horses were descendants of the American Quarter Horse Impressive. Indirect evidence indicates that at least 3 other affected Quarter Horse stallions have stood or are standing at stud in Australia. The clinical details of the affected horses are described and the size of the affected population in Australia is discussed.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8579565/