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Update on Atypical Myopathy cases reported throughout northern Europe
12th January 2010
In November we drew attention to news from Liege University's equine Atypical Myopathy Alert Group (AMAG), which reported that there had been an unusually high prevalence of this unusual, life-threatening condition (also called atypical myoglobinuria) throughout northern Europe during last autumn.
AMAG reported 336 cases of the disease in 2009, with a survival rate of around only 23%. This clinical series was the largest ever encountered. The affected countries were: the United Kingdom (33 cases), Ireland (2 cases), France (113 cases), Germany (72 cases), Belgium (64 cases), Denmark (2 cases), Netherlands (18 cases), Switzerland (29 cases) and Luxembourg (3 cases).
At Rossdale & Partners, we saw a number of cases from the Newmarket area and referred from elsewhere in East Anglia during November and December. We admitted in-contact cases from within the Newmarket area to our Equine Hospital, two that died and another, which was less-severely affected and recovered following intensive care.
AMAG reported at the end of December that the clinical series of atypical myopathy cases appeared to have ceased: the last new cases were identified during the week commencing 14th December, and since 19th December no new cases had been reported to them. With the continuing freeze and snow covering pastures, the Group had downgraded its warning to horse owners. However, it said it is important to note that there seem to be periods during spring when atypical myopathy has been reported previously and owners should be vigilant. In fact we did see more cases from within the Newmarket area right up to the end of the year.
Little is known about the cause of Equine Atypical Myopathy (EAM) but it may involve the ingestion of a currently unconfirmed, but perhaps clostridial, toxin. The condition affects individuals and groups of horses at pasture and up to 89% of affected horses die or require euthanasia. Young horses are particularly susceptible, particularly those in poor bodily condition, on relatively poor quality pasture. A sudden adverse change in weather conditions, such as a frost or heavy rain is a significant trigger factor.
AMAG has published extensively on EAM and, because of last year’s increased incidence, is currently conducting an epidemiological study. For their advice on preventative measures and to report suspected cases please go to www.myopathieatypique.be. We will update these new pages if cases of atypical myopathy are reported in the spring.
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