Radiological prevalence of equine odontoclastic tooth resorption and hypercementosis

Abstract

Focusing on radiological changes, this study shows that EOTRH is a common condition of horses in Berlin-Brandenburg. With older age, disease is more frequent and radiological changes become more severe. Since no horse older than 14 years was without radiological findings, it is likely that mild changes may be associated with the normal tooth ageing process.

History, clinical findings and outcome of horses with radiographical signs of equine odontoclastic tooth resorption and hypercementosis

“…However, one recent study noted that age is not a significant risk factor, 4 and Smedley and others 5 describe pathological manifestations of the disease in a 10‐year‐old horse. This is supported by radiographic evidence of resorption in even younger horses, although the frequency of all types of tooth resorption does increase significantly with age 1 8 . Most of the horses in the study had severe lesions that appear to have progressed over a prolonged period before the diagnosis was made, which accounts for the bias towards aged horses.…”

“…Recent literature has proposed that breed and sex may be risk factors associated with EOTRH 4 5 . EOTRH has been reported to occur most commonly in Thoroughbreds and Warmbloods, 2 5 6 but the condition has also been diagnosed in several other breeds 3 5 7 8 . Several reports suggest that geldings are most commonly affected 5 9 .…”

“…Several reports suggest that geldings are most commonly affected 5 9 . Older age is a risk factor for EOTRH, but moderate‐to‐severe radiographic changes have been identified in middle‐aged horses (11–13 years) 4 8 …”

Clinical insights: Equine dentistry

“…Equine odontoclastic tooth resorption and hypercementosis syndrome of the incisors and canines was first described over 10 years ago , but the aetiology has remained elusive. It appears more common in aged equines , with a recent German study documenting all horses over the age of 14 having radiographic signs of incisor resorption, even when apparently asymptomatic . Radiographic examination is invaluable in the diagnosis of the condition and radiographic screening of all equine incisors in patients over the age of 15 has been suggested .…”

“…Equally, some patterns of resorption seen in equine cases failed to fit any of the classes seen in other species. A modified, staging classification system for equine odontoclastic tooth resorption and hypercementosis has also been suggested that may be more applicable to use in equine cases .…”