When are steroids contraindicated in horses?

When are steroids contraindicated in horses?

• A. Laminitis
• B. Colic
• C. Respiratory infection
• D. Gastric ulcers

Answer: (A)

Steroids are avoided in horses that have or are at risk for laminitis because corticosteroids can trigger or worsen laminar inflammation in the hoof. This can lead to damage to the laminae and potential rotation or sinking of the coffin bone, a severe and painful complication. Because of this strong association, laminitis is a clear contraindication for systemic or local corticosteroid use. The other conditions listed don’t carry the same immediate, well-established risk. Colic, respiratory infection, or gastric ulcers aren’t the definitive reason to withhold steroids in the same way, though long-term use can have other side effects (such as GI or immune suppression) that clinicians consider in context.

Steroids are avoided in horses that have or are at risk for laminitis because corticosteroids can trigger or worsen laminar inflammation in the hoof. This can lead to damage to the laminae and potential rotation or sinking of the coffin bone, a severe and painful complication. Because of this strong association, laminitis is a clear contraindication for systemic or local corticosteroid use.

The other conditions listed don’t carry the same immediate, well-established risk. Colic, respiratory infection, or gastric ulcers aren’t the definitive reason to withhold steroids in the same way, though long-term use can have other side effects (such as GI or immune suppression) that clinicians consider in context.