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Diagnosis of Equine Asthma
Equine asthma is traditionally associated with poor
air quality and airborne irritants. Severe respiratory
inflammation typically affects stabled horses and has
an underlying allergic component.
2
While the allergic
component of IAD has not been as extensively documented,
inhaled irritants found in barns are also thought to play a
significant role in this condition.
2
Triggers of respiratory inflammation in horses include pollen,
dust, mites, ammonia gas (from urine), and particulate
matter from gasoline engines (tractors, etc.).
1,2
Fungi also
play a significant role, especially in the case of summer
pasture-associated severe equine asthma.
1,2
Signs may wax
and wane, depending on the degree of exposure to these
airborne irritants.
In severe cases of equine asthma, medical history alone may
be sufficient to make a diagnosis. Clinical scoring systems
can also offer benefits, both in diagnosis and grading
severity.
1
Pulmonary function tests are not readily available
for equine veterinarians, as they are for the diagnosis of
human asthma, but a clinical response to bronchodilators
can also support a diagnosis.
1
Upper airway endoscopy is
recommended to rule out upper airway obstruction, and
bronchoalveolar lavage and transtracheal wash can aid in
the detection of inflammatory cells.
1
Equine asthma is a condition
that is managed, not cured.
Successful management requires
close collaboration between the
client and veterinarian.
