HERDA (Hereditary Equine Regional Dermal Asthenia, PPIB)
Hereditary connective tissue disorder of the skin (collagen defect through a mutation in the PPIB gene), in which the skin layers are insufficiently anchored. HERDA is inherited autosomal-recessive and occurs above all in certain cutting/performance lines of the Quarter Horse; only homozygous animals are affected, carriers are clinically unremarkable.
Veterinary care required
This condition belongs in veterinary diagnosis and treatment. Compounds are at most supportive.
Priority · vet & management
A gene test (PPIB) to clarify carrier/affected status and a corresponding breeding decision come first. Affected horses need veterinary supervision as well as consistent protection and wound management; HERDA is not curable.
Possible causes
- · autosomal-recessive mutation in the PPIB gene (cyclophilin B, collagen maturation disturbed)
- · only homozygous animals affected, heterozygous carriers unremarkable
- · clustering in certain cutting/reining lines of the Quarter Horse
- · mechanical strain of the skin (saddle, sun) as a manifestation trigger
Supportive compounds · supplementary feed, not medication
Prevention
A gene test of both parent animals and avoidance of carrier-x-carrier matings prevent affected offspring.
Equiterna's take
Equiterna handles HERDA strictly genetics- and vet-centred: the PPIB gene test and breeding management are in the foreground, complementary feeds have no causal role here.
Usage note
This content is for information and education. It does not replace veterinary diagnosis or treatment. If your horse shows signs of illness, consult a veterinarian.
Equiterna is an intermediary platform for equine knowledge, marketplace and tools — not a veterinary-medicines dealer, veterinary practice or pharmacy. Compound information is study-attributed and free of healing claims. Legal framework: Regulation (EU) 2019/6 / TAMG (DE/AT), Feed Regulation (EC) 767/2009, FEI Prohibited Substances List, HWG.