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===Biopsy===
===Biopsy===
A definitive diagnosis is obtained by taking an ileal biopsy at laparotomy and inspecting the intrinsic myenteric plexus. A 1-2cm eliptical biopsy should be taken from the anti-mesenteric border of the ileum at the level where the ileocaecal ligament ends. Degenerative lesions and necrosis are seen in the autonomic nerve ganglia and enteric nervous system.
A definitive diagnosis is obtained by taking an ileal biopsy at laparotomy and inspecting the intrinsic myenteric plexus. A 1-2cm eliptical biopsy should be taken from the anti-mesenteric border of the ileum at the level where the ileocaecal ligament ends. Degenerative lesions and necrosis are seen in the autonomic nerve ganglia and enteric nervous system.
===Pathology===
===Pathology===
On post mortem examination the [[Forestomach - Anatomy & Physiology|Stomach]] and [[Small Intestine - Anatomy & Physiology|small intestine]] may be distented and contain large amounts of yellow fluid.
There is an abrupt change in the [[Large Intestine - Anatomy & Physiology|large intestine]], where no fluid is present and the contents are very dry and mucoid.
There is an abrupt change in the [[Large Intestine - Anatomy & Physiology|large intestine]], where no fluid is present and the contents are very dry and mucoid.
==Treatment==
==Treatment==
There is no effective treatment, prompt euthanasia is indicated in acute cases, some chronic cases can be managed with intensive nursing care for a limited time period.
There is no effective treatment, prompt euthanasia is indicated in acute cases, some chronic cases can be managed with intensive nursing care for a limited time period.
In chronic cases where the neuronal degeneration is very mild and supportive management is successful 40% of horses have been reported t o return to excercise.
==Prognosis==
==Prognosis==