Equine Recumbency: Defining the Problem and Establishing the Differential Diagnosis

Because horses suffer from recumbency for a variety of reasons, it is imperative that the equine clinician becomes familiar with management of these patients. Initial evaluation must be efficient and thorough, and in many cases preparation for referral is indicated. Careful physical and neurologic examination will facilitate accurate neuroanatomic localization of a lesion. From this information, a differential diagnostic list will be formulated. The therapeutic recommendations will depend on a rapid and accurate diagnosis.