EPM

A serious degenerative disease

Equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) is a progressive, degenerative disease of the central nervous system of the horse. The disease is characterized by asymmetrical ataxia with or without muscle atrophy.

The causative organism is a protozoal parasite named Sarcocystis neurona. The horse comes into contact with the infective sporocysts while grazing or eating contaminated feed or drinking water. Once ingested, the sporocysts migrate from the intestinal tract into the bloodstream and cross the blood-brain barrier.

EPM can be difficult to diagnose because there are several diseases of the central nervous system that can mimic EPM. It is important for the veterinarian to do a thorough neurological examination with appropriate laboratory diagnostic support.

If left undiagnosed and untreated, EPM can cause devastating and lasting neurological damage.

Learn more about EPM on our website www.yourhorseshealth.com.