Endotoxin is a common inflammatory cause of laminitis. True or False?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not associated
• D. Only calving

Answer: (A)

Endotoxin from Gram-negative bacteria can enter the bloodstream during GI disturbances, triggering a systemic inflammatory response. This inflammatory cascade drives cytokine release, neutrophil activation, and vascular changes in the hoof laminae, leading to edema and weakening of the laminar attachments that culminates in laminitis. Because this endotoxemia-driven inflammation is a well-established and common cause of laminitis, the statement is true. It’s not the only cause, but it is a familiar and important inflammatory trigger; laminitis is not limited to calving or unrelated to endotoxin.