Symptoms

• Equestrian panniculitis is usually characterized by lesions on the upper thigh that are cold to the touch. These lesions are often symmetrical, have a purple tinge and produce a burning sensation.
  
  

Diagnostic Tests

• According to doctors at Hammersmith Hospital, a deep skin biopsy that includes some of the fat tissues in the region of the lesions is helpful in the diagnosis of this condition. In most cases, blood and serum biochemistry are used to distinguish this from other types of panniculitis.
  
  

Theory

• To date equestrian panniculitis has only been diagnosed in women.riding horses image by Photoeyes from Fotolia.com
  
  To date, equestrian panniculitis has only been found in women who ride regularly in cold weather while wearing tight-fitting uninsulated riding pants. Doctors believe the tight pants cut off circulation to the area, thus producing the lesions.
  
  

Treatment

• While the lesions of equestrian panniculitis will slowly disappear with no scarring, the condition is easily avoided by reducing exposure to the cold and wearing loose-fitting, insulated trousers.
  
  

Other Forms

• The symptoms of equestrian panniculitis often mimic those of other forms of panniculitis; however, this form should always be considered if the patient rides a lot in cold weather.