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The TRH stimulation test is the most sensitive test for PPID (Equine Cushing's Disease) in horses. Blood is drawn before and 10 minutes after TRH administration. In a normal horse, ACTH rises less than 2-3 times baseline. In PPID horses, there is an exaggerated ACTH response. This test is especially useful when resting ACTH is borderline or clinical signs suggest PPID despite normal resting ACTH.
A blunted ACTH response to TRH is uncommon and may occur in horses on corticosteroid therapy (caused by medical treatment suppression) or normal variation.
Review any recent medication history with your veterinarian.
Equine TRH stimulation test: Baseline 15 pg/mL, 10-min post-TRH 25 pg/mL (Blunted response)The TRH stimulation test is the most sensitive test for PPID (Equine Cushing's Disease) in horses. Blood is drawn before and 10 minutes after TRH administration. In a normal horse, ACTH rises less than 2-3 times baseline. In PPID horses, there is an exaggerated ACTH response. This test is especially useful when resting ACTH is borderline or clinical signs suggest PPID despite normal resting ACTH.
No action needed. PPID is unlikely based on this result.
Equine TRH stimulation test: Baseline 28 pg/mL, 10-min post-TRH 62 pg/mL (Normal)An exaggerated ACTH response to TRH stimulation (post-TRH ACTH > 100 pg/mL or > 2-3x baseline depending on the lab) is consistent with PPID. PPID is a progressive disease of older horses caused by neurodegeneration of the pituitary pars intermedia. Clinical signs include extra body hair (delayed shedding, long curly coat), polyuria/polydipsia, recurrent infections, laminitis, muscle wasting, and lethargy.
Treatment with pergolide (Prascend) is recommended and very effective at managing clinical signs. Most horses show significant improvement within 3-6 months. Regular monitoring of ACTH (every 6-12 months) and dose adjustments are needed. Management should also include regular farrier care, dental care, and vaccination protocols adjusted for the compromised immune function.
Equine TRH stimulation test: Baseline 35 pg/mL, 10-min post-TRH 185 pg/mL (Exaggerated response)Upload your lab report and get your actual values interpreted in plain English — instantly, with no medical training required.