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Veterinary Science	Mare Reproductive Loss Syndrome Index Page
Daily Briefings

Mare Reproductive Loss Syndrome

Daily Briefing, May 23

Daily Briefing, May 23, 2001
Wednesday, 5:00 pm

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Mare Reproductive Loss Syndrome
UK College of Agriculture

The scientific investigations continue into the cause of Mare Reproductive Loss Syndrome (MRLS). Additional pasture and hay sample results obtained today continue to be negative for all mycotoxins, adding further evidence that mycotoxins are not the cause of the syndrome.  Intense investigation into the hypothesis that Eastern Tent Caterpillars may be the causal agent is underway, although additional hypotheses are also being pursued.

In further review of the weather data obtained today, dating back to the mid 1970's, the weather patterns observed in 1980, 1981 and 2001 do appear to be unique. All three years had cold March temperatures, warm April temperatures interrupted by frost or freeze in the third week of the month. We continue to believe this weather pattern is a contributing cause to MRLS.

The scientific investigating teams appreciate the farms who have supplied hay and colostrum samples for analysis. We have received a total of 202 hay/ pasture samples and 5 colostrum samples.

Field reports from both farm managers and equine practitioners indicate fewer cases of MRLS both in the early and late stages. Dr. Doug Byars, Internal Medicine, Hagyard-Davidson-McGee, reported the hospital is still seeing a few foaling mares with problems, a slowing of early fetal loss problems in the field, some problems related to horses in confinement and overall a much improved situation as compared to the last few weeks.  Dr. Tom Riddle of Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital and Dr. Doug Byars will be on the information session program tomorrow night at Keeneland.

There will NOT be a daily briefing posted tomorrow, Thursday, May 24, due to the information sharing session scheduled for 5:00 pm at the Keeneland Sales Pavilion. Farm owners, managers, industry representatives and the media are encouraged to attend.