Horsesdaily News: EPSM (Equine Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy)

EPSM (Equine Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy) page 4

Finally, Correct Diagnosis and Treatment

In 2003, Reno was turned out as a last resort. “Depressed and ready to give up completely, I gave him 10 months off from work,” said Wolfe. She tried riding him again, but he was still sore after the layoff.

She arranged to give him up, retiring him permanently, but decided to try one final test in October 2003. “Within a few weeks time of his potential departure, I decided I must try a muscle biopsy. This was the only thing left I hadn’t tried.”

Although the clinic personnel claimed Reno couldn’t have EPSM, Wolfe insisted on the biopsy. When she got the phone call on the test results, she said, “I held back in advance the tears I knew I would have, to hear the news of yet another non-conclusive diagnosis.” Yet the test proved positive for EPSM.

Wolfe talked with Dr. Valentine about the muscle biopsy. She explained, “Reno’s body was not able to use carbohydrates as an energy source. Instead, he would literally eat himself: his own muscle.”

EPSM is treated though dietary therapy, feeding a high-fat diet. Along with hay and regular exercise, Valentine advised, “at least 1 pound of fat (2 cups of vegetable-based oil such as soy, canola, corn, etc. or equivalent in other fat source) per 1000 pounds of horse per day, along with as much reduction in starch and sugar (grain, molasses) intake as possible.”

She added, “It takes about four months for full fat adaptation in these horses, so I like to see owners try this type of diet for at least that long.”

The diet has greatly helped Reno, who’s back to work. “We’re not doing lateral work and gradually building muscle and strength,” said Wolfe. “He is calmer in temperament and much more relaxed—we plan on showing this year.” Reno is insured with Markel Insurance.

Valentine shared advice for other horse owners: “I would suggest that any horse in which an owner has felt the need to call in a chiropractor or acupuncturist for unexplained body soreness or gait issues should also be evaluated for EPSM."