First case of fragile foal syndrome in a thoroughbred discovered in UK

The first case of fragile foal syndrome in a thoroughbred has been identified in the UK. A thoroughbred foal, euthanised due to severe skin and other lesions, typical of this affliction, has been shown to have both copies of the DNA mutation responsible i.e. from both parents.

Fragile foal syndrome has long been recognised in warmblood horses, with approximately 10% of mares testing positive. Pre-mating screening in warmbloods avoids conception of affected foals.

Early studies in thoroughbreds suggest only 1 to 2% of mares carry the mutation, but are clinically normal and will bear normal foals as long as they are not mated with carrier stallions. Screening of thoroughbred stallions has not been undertaken to date.

Read more on the case here: First case of fragile foal syndrome found in thoroughbred horse (horseandhound.co.uk)