Text Box: FROM THE SKIN CHAPTER HAEMATOMA A haematoma is a sizeable accumulation of blood under the skin, which forms a clot following local trauma. Initially the area will be painful with surrounding areas of skin often showing evidence of contusion. Typical causes include falls, kicks or blows from blunt objects. The brisket area is a common site for a haematoma to appear after a fall. Treatment should involve dosing with Arnica 30c or Arnica 200c (depending of the severity of the problem) twice daily, along with Hamamelis 30c …… PHOTOSENSITISATION & SUNBURN This is an uncommon condition in which the skin becomes reactive to ultraviolet light in those areas that lack pigmentation. This means that the condition is normally limited to the white areas of the skin which naturally lack pigmentation and is essentially a form of sunburn. Exposed, hairless areas are particularly likely to be affected including the ear tips, nose and muzzle. There are two underlying types. In primary or direct photosensitisation the skin becomes susceptible to UV radiation due to ingestion of plants containing photosensitising agents. These compounds can be found in plants such as St John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) and dried Buckwheat plants and seeds (Polygonum fagopyrum). Initially there is an increase in skin irritation seen as rubbing and ear flicking. As the condition progresses the skin becomes……. FROM THE ENDOCRINE SYSTEM CHAPTER The endocrine or hormonal system controls some of the major functions of the body through a number of chemical intermediaries or chemical messengers referred to as hormones. These are produced and secreted by a number of glands and circulate in the blood to their target organs. Hormones, for example, control the oestrus cycle, influence hair growth, maintain blood sugar levels and regulate metabolism. Endocrine problems are relatively rare in the horse. The most common condition is Cushing’s disease but on occasion diabetes mellitus, diabetes incipidus and hypothyroidism may be seen. CUSHING’S DISEASE HYPERADRENOCORTICISM Cushing’s disease is named after an American surgeon, Harvey Cushing, who first described the condition in people in 1932 whilst researching the brain and function of the pituitary gland. Mainly seen in older horses, it has been diagnosed… Text Box: SKIN & HORMONES Text Box: Hypericum or St John’s Wort can cause photosensitization in horses if eaten. Homeopathically it can be used for treating nerve injuries Text Box: Homeopathy can often help with sarcoids Text Box: Skin problems like allergies can be treated successfully with Homeopathic remedies