HYPP

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From: Dr. Judith Reynolds 
Email: jreynolds@moorman.com

To ridecamp people interested in HYPP:

I did my dissertation research on the link between the genetic predisposition to HYPP and dietary potassium concentrations.  There is a lot of misinformation and old information circulating about that disorder, and I would like to answer questions about the topic and/or refer people to the most current information.  Please contact me through my email address.  

Generally, 
1. All horses have variable plasma potassium concentration, and after meals and exercise the plasma potassium concentration increases.  Therefore, you cannot take random blood samples and find out anything about HYPP status.  To see if a horse is affected, you need to do the DNA test.  
2. Increased plasma potassium above about 3.8 mmol/L can start to trigger HYPP symptoms in affected horses.  But, it is possible to manage the diet to minimize or prevent symptoms.  
3. HYPP is a medical disorder, and you should always consult with a veterinarian about treatment of episodes.
4. Horses can have their first symptoms at any age if plasma potassium reaches the threshold concentration for that horse for the first time.  
5. Symptoms are more predictable now, because of our better understanding of the effects of diet in H/N and H/H horses.  

Thanks for your interest in this topic.

Judith A. Reynolds, Ph.D., P.A.S.
Equine Technical Specialist
MoorMan's, Inc.
Quincy, IL 62305-3115
jreynolds@moorman.com