Greasy Heel
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This article is still under construction. |
| Also known as: | Grease Heel Pastern Folliculitis Pastern Dermatitis |
Description
Greasy heel is not a single disease but refers to the clinical presentation of a group of inflammatory skin conditions of the distal limb of the horse. Several aetiologies have been suggested including immunodysregulation, contact dermatitis and genetic (breed) predisposition. Bacteria including Dermatophilus, Staphylococcus, Fusiformis and Dermatophilus may all have a role in its pathogenesis.
Signalment
Greasy heel has no sex predilection in the adult horse. Although all breeds are affected, draft horses such as Shires and Clydesdales are more prone to developing the condition. It has been hypothesised that these breeds are particularly affected due to underlying immune-mediated vasculitis.
Clinical signs
Skin lesions are seen most commonly in non-pigmented areas at the palmar or plantar aspect of the pastern. Hindlimbs are most commonly affected and lesions are usually symmetrical.