Equine Neuromuscular

Updated April 4, 2019

The Equine Neuromuscular and Genetics Diagnostic Laboratory is dedicated to providing the most accurate diagnosis and optimal treatment of muscle disorders in horses. We offer genetic and muscle biopsy testing for a variety of diseases.

Genetic testing

  • Polysaccharide storage myopathy
    • Type 1 PSSM causes muscle soreness and tying up in over 20 breeds.
    • Type 2 PSSM can cause similar symptoms to type 1. A muscle biopsy is required to diagnose type 2 PSSM. Michigan State University performs the muscle biopsy.
  • Malignant hyperthermia (MH)
    • Malignant hyperthermia occurs in quarter horses and paints and can cause signs of tying up, elevated body temperature, sweating, and anesthetic reactions. It can occur together with type 1 PSSM giving particularly severe signs of tying up.

Please see submission information for genetic testing. 

For clinical information on equine neuromuscular diseases, visit The Equine Neuromuscular Diagnostic Laboratory website

For information on equine genetic research, visit The Equine Genetics and Genomics Laboratory website

 

Muscle biopsy testing

As of December 21, 2015, muscle biopsy testing will no longer be offered at the University of Minnesota and will transition with Dr. Valberg to Michigan State University beginning January 4, 2016.

Submission information at Michigan State