Hyperthyroidism -is it possible?

[aniford]

Hi folks
I posted a thread about my mare losing weight. I have since completed some research on possible causes.
The common causes were ruled out by my vet very quickly, he has known me and my mare for over 10 yrs, which has helped.
The only conclusion that has logically been left open to him is that my mare has IBD of some description, despite her only symptom being gradual weight loss, interspersed with periods of slight gain and stability.
Holly is now on the last resort of corticosteroid tablets, if she hasnt shown signs of improving by 30th (this coming Tuesday) I need to decide when I am to have her PTS.
I have the utmost respect for my vet and I am very much aware that I may be clutching at straws but I really think that although his diagnosis is a logical one that it is wrong.
This is after looking at as much reliably sourced information as I can find on the net (mainly Vet journal abstracts). IBD just doesnt make sense.
I came across a number of abstracts regarding hyperthyroidism and a piece from H&H. All the physical symptoms fit.
I need some help, how do I approach my vet with the information Ive found and persuade him to complete the triiodothyronine-suppression test for hyperthyroidism? I dont even know if he will be able to do the test or if its worth even bringing any of the information up that Ive found.
When I asked about a possible thyroid problem a few weeks ago when she had blood drawn for usual blood profile he just brushed the suggestion away and more or less said horses dont get thyroid problems.
I understand thyroid problems are hard to diagnose and probably rare but isnt it worth investigating?
Ani xx

 

[maggiesmum]

Definitely, you're paying the bill after all so if you insist on a test and he refuses to do it I;d find another vet that will. Before you PTS you want to feel that you've explored all the avenues, just because somethings rare doesn't mean it can't happen. Xx

 

[Circe]

Completely agree with Maggiesmum.
It sounds like you won't ever be secure in any decision to pts unless you have your horse tested.
I'm sure you respect your vet, so explain to him that you realise you might be clutching at straws, but you really want the test, as you cant pts "happily" ( wrong word I know ) without trying everything.
Hopefully, he will respect where you are coming from, and either do the test or refer you to someone who can.
If not, I'd get a different vet, if only for your own piece of mind.
Keep us informed.
Kx

 

[popularfurball]

Agree with the above - it was something I queried with my pony (was actually auto immune disease pemphigus erythematosus) but too dismissed by the vet. I think it's more commonly studied in states than here. From what I couldgather testing is quite unpredictBle and many other primary causes too.

Presume you have had a couple of cushings tests done? Hope you get the answers your after xxxx

 

[aniford]

From what I couldgather testing is quite unpredictBle and many other primary causes too.

Presume you have had a couple of cushings tests done? Hope you get the answers your after xxxx[/QUOTE]

Thanks folks for the replies. Yeah the research Ive found and case examples have all been from the USA.
No! Cushings hasnt been mentioned, she doesnt have any typical Cushings symptoms?
Im not ready to give up on her yet. Especially as for the last few days she has been totally manic and racing round her field like a yearling!
Ani xx