Equine rhabdomyolysis: causes, clinical manifestations, therapeutic approaches, and prevention strategies

Abstract

Equine rhabdomyolysis is a myopathic syndrome of multifactorial etiology, characterized by the degeneration of skeletal muscle fibers, with the consequent release of myoglobin and intracellular enzymes into the bloodstream. Popularly known as “azoturia” or “Monday disease”, it occurs more frequently in horses subjected to intense exercise after periods of inactivity, especially when associated with high-carbohydrate diets. The main clinical signs include muscle stiffness and pain, profuse sweating, tachycardia, reluctance to move, and darkened urine due to myoglobinuria. Recurrent forms of the disease, such as polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM), are hereditary in nature and require a differentiated diagnostic approach, including thorough clinical evaluation and laboratory tests, such as the measurement of creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Treatment consists of rest, analgesia, adequate hydration and, when necessary, the use of muscle relaxants or sedatives. Prophylactic measures are essential and include appropriate nutritional management, the implementation of a regular exercise routine and, in cases of genetic predisposition, specific management and feeding protocols. Equine rhabdomyolysis is a relevant clinical condition in equine sports medicine, and its understanding is essential for proper management and the prevention of systemic complications.