Bone biomarkers and risk of fracture in two- and three-year-old Thoroughbreds

Authors
Jackson, B.F.; Dyson, P.K.; Lonnell, C.; Verheyen, K.L.P.; Pfeiffer, D.U.; Price, J.S.
Date
April 2009
Journal
Equine Veterinary Journal
Volume
41
Number
4
Pages
410-413(4)

The aim of this study was to determine whether bone biomarkers (osteocalcin, PICP, ICTP and CTX-I) could be used to identify 2- and 3-year-olds at increased risk of fracture in the subsequent flat racing season. It was concluded that these bone biomarkers cannot be used to identify 2- and 3-year-olds that sustain a fracture. Whether bone biomarkers have better predictive value in older horses or when measured serially in the same animal remains to be determined.