Equis ISSN 2398-2977
Tarsus: tarsocrural synovitis (bog spavin)
Synonym(s): Bog spavin
Contributor(s): Prof Gary M Baxter, Graham Munroe, Vetstream Ltd
Introduction
Print off the Owner factsheet on Bog spavin (tarsocrural synovitis) Bog spavin (tarsocrural synovitis) to give to your clients.
Pathogenesis
Etiology
Predisposing factors
General
- Poor conformation, eg too straight in the hocks.
- Prolonged periods of being stalled or inactivity.
- Lower hindlimb casts may develop effusion in the immobilized limb. ? due to joint capsule sprain.
- Performance horses, eg dressage, showjumpers, required to perform quick and tight turns and manoeuvres.
- Deficiencies alone or in combination of: phosphorus Phosphorus, calcium Calcium salts Nutrition: minerals, Vitamins A Vitamin A or D Vitamin D3.
- Chronic zinc poisoning.
Pathophysiology
- Biomechanical stress or other tarsal joint pathology, eg osteochondrosis Bone: osteochondrosis → recurring cartilage microtrauma → chronic low grade synovitis → synovial effusion.
- Distension of the joint → increased space between synoviocytes and dilution of hyaluronic acid.
- See synovial joint pathobiology Joint: synovial pathobiology.
Diagnosis
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Treatment
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Outcomes
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Further Reading
Publications
Refereed papers
- Recent references from PubMed and VetMedResource.
- Weaver M P & Wilant L (2012) Owner survey of tarsocrural effusion (bog spavin) in Clydesdale horses. Vet Rec 170 (11), 286 PubMed.
Other sources of information
- O'Meara B (2012) Bog spavin: recognising the problem is the first step towards recovery. Vet Rec 170 (11), 284-285 (Editorial).
- Dabareiner R M, Carter G K & Dyson S J (2003) The Tarsus. In: Diagnosis & Management of Lameness in the Horse. Eds: Ross M W & Dyson S J. Saunders, Missouri. pp 443-444.
- Sullins K E (2002) The Tarsus. In: Adams Lameness in Horses. 5th edn. Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, Baltimore. pp 947-950.