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Author (up) Madigan, J.E.; Kortz, G.; Murphy, C.; Rodger, L.
Title Photic headshaking in the horse: 7 cases Type Journal Article
Year 1995 Publication Equine Veterinary Journal Abbreviated Journal Equine Vet J
Volume 27 Issue 4 Pages 306-311
Keywords Animals; Anti-Allergic Agents/therapeutic use; *Behavior, Animal; Cyproheptadine/therapeutic use; Female; *Head; Horse Diseases/drug therapy/*etiology; Horses; Light/*adverse effects; Male; Movement Disorders/drug therapy/etiology/*veterinary
Abstract Seven horses with headshaking are described. No physical abnormalities were detected in any of the cases. Six of these horses had onset of clinical signs in the spring. The role of light was assessed by application of a blindfold or dark grey lens to the eyes, covering the eyes with a face mask and observing the horse in total darkness outdoors. Cessation of headshaking was observed with blindfolding (5/5 horses), night darkness outdoors (4/4 horses) and use of grey lenses (2/3 horses). Outdoor behaviour suggested efforts to avoid light in 4/4 cases. The photic sneeze in man is suggested as a putative mechanism for equine headshaking. Five of 7 horses had improvement with cyproheptadine treatment (0.3 mg/kg bwt b.i.d.). Headshaking developed within 2 calendar weeks of the same date for 3 consecutive years in one horse. Neuropharmacological alterations associated with photoperiod mechanisms leading to optic trigeminal summation are suggested as possible reasons for spring onset of headshaking.
Address Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California-Davis 95616-8737, USA
Corporate Author Thesis
Publisher Place of Publication Editor
Language English Summary Language Original Title
Series Editor Series Title Abbreviated Series Title
Series Volume Series Issue Edition
ISSN 0425-1644 ISBN Medium
Area Expedition Conference
Notes PMID:8536668 Approved no
Call Number refbase @ user @ Serial 1940
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