Juvenile Arabian Leucoderma

paulfitz@au1.ibm.com
Fri, 31 Jan 1997 06:11:17 -0500

Classification:
Prologue: Paul Fitzgerald, IBM Healthcare Solutions
Tel: 07 3213 2099 Fax: 07 3213 2013
Email: paulfitz@au1.ibm.com
Mobile: 0412 792 375
Epilogue: Paul.

Bit of an update folks,
Our vet, Julian Willmore, has suggested that our horse has Vitiligo. It is
described in a text book as"an idiopathic acquired depigmentation." It has
been suggested that the condition, also known as Arabian fading syndrome or
pinky syndrome, may be immune-mediated. It appears to be caused be the
melanocytes (cells producing melanin which gives the colour to skin, eyes etc)
be killed, or disabled. The depigmentation may wax and wane, but is usually
permanent, although horses will occasionally re-pigment within one year. The
condition is most common in pregnant mares or mares who have just foaled, so it
may also be hormonal.

This condition also affects about 2 in 100 people. If anyone is interested,
there is a very informative web site on the condition at:
http://tray.dermatology.uiowa.edu/PIPs/Vitiligo.html

Any other info, still gratefully accepted.
thanks,
---------------------- Forwarded by Paul Fitzgerald/Australia/IBM on 31-01-97
21:00 ---------------------------
Paul Fitzgerald 30-01-97 22:27

Paul Fitzgerald, IBM Healthcare Solutions
Tel: 07 3213 2099 Fax: 07 3213 2013
Email: paulfitz@au1.ibm.com
Mobile: 0412 792 375
To: ridecamp @ endurance.net @ internet
cc:
Subject: Juvenile Arabian Leucoderma

Hi folks,
Looking for any information on the above, also known as Arabian Fading Syndrome
- or maybe just Leucoderma.
Appears to be more common, although not exclusive, in Arabs. Presents as loss
of pigment around the eyes or muzzle. From what I have found out, it is not a
disease as such, but a skin condition. Any info would be appreciated.
[Yes, Anne, that's what Jamahl appears to have. (not a problem, tho')]
Paul.