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Written by Administrator
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Thursday, 30 October 2008 13:08 |
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Hyperlipemia is a condition occurring primarily in ponies, miniature horses and donkeys characterized by a fatty liver and cloudy-white serum due to the accumulation of lipids (fats). This condition is precipitated by an acute onset of anorexia or decreased caloric intake, causing fat mobilization and accumulation in the liver and plasma. Since this condition is associated with sudden decrease in food intake, other diseases often precipitate hyperlipemia. Signs of hyperlipemia are not specific and include anorexia, depression, weakness, incoordination, diarrhea and jaundice. The presence of cloudy blood or serum is supportive of the disease. Laboratory diagnosis relies on triglyceride levels. Bilirubin is usually elevated as well. Other changes on blood work may be associated with the primary disease process. Hyperlipemia is more common in ponies, during the winter months, in lactating or pregnant animals and animals that are receiving poor feed. Treatment is aimed at correcting any underlying disease process and correcting the negative energy balance. Insulin and glucose administration may be attempted. The prognosis for recovery is usually poor. 
The tube to the left contains lipemic serum: note the cloudy, white nature of the liquid.
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