horses. The objective of this study was to determine risk factors for the development of PEAL in North America.
2. Materials and Methods
This case-control study was performed in North America from 2012 to 2015. Participating veteri- narians provided data from an index case of PEAL and two control populations, a healthy horse and a lame horse. Data from affected and unaffected horses were compared by use of conditional logistic regression analysis.
3. Results
A total of 199 horses with acute, incident PEAL, 198 healthy controls, and 153 lameness controls were included. Horses with an obese body condition score (BCS 7), generalized and/or regional adipos- ity, a historic diagnosis of an endocrinopathy, and
recent glucocorticoid administration were at an in- creased odds of developing PEAL.
4. Discussion
This study provided important information about the risk of PEAL in horses in North America. Early identification of horses at risk of obesity and/or en- docrinologic disease may be important factors in reducing the burden of PEAL.
Acknowledgments
Declaration of Ethics The Authors have adhered to the Principles of the Veterinary Medical Ethics of the AVMA.
Conflict of Interest The Authors declare no conflicts of interest.
Funding Sources This project was funded by the AAEP Foundation.
