New perspectives in equine gastric ulcer syndrome.

Abstract

Equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) is common in horses. A history of mild intermitted recurrent colic signs after eating is noted in many horses. Management of horses with abdominal pain caused by gastric ulcers is especially difficult, because non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents, typically used to control abdominal pain, may exacerbate this condition. Effective pharmacologic agents are available to treat EGUS and eliminate abdominal pain, but more comprehensive measures of environmental and dietary management are needed to manage horses with EGUS and prevent recurrence. This article focuses on the history, clinical signs, diagnosis, and management of horses with abdominal pain associated with gastric ulcers. The primary goal is to provide an understanding of EGUS and to review effective pain management and specific antiulcer treatments and management strategies in horses with EGUS.