Respiratory Diagnostics

With various tools at our disposal, our experienced veterinarians can better diagnose abnormal noises, poor performance, upper airway obstructions, and lung disease.

With the use of video endoscopy, we are able to visualize the overall function and anatomy of the upper airway including pharynx and larynx. Endoscopy also allows for biopsy and other sample collections such as cultures, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), and tracheal washes (TW) that can be submitted for further laboratory analysis.  All ambulatory vehicles are equipped with endoscopic capabilities.

Lower respiratory trach diseases involving the lung such as pneumonia as well as non-infectious lung issues can be assessed using digital radiography and ultrasound.  Equine asthma is a term that encompasses non-infectious causes of lower respiratory issues including allergic airway disease, inflammatory airway disease (IAD) and recurrent airway obstruction (RAO) otherwise known as heaves.  Clinical signs and history are often used to make a diagnosis; however, ultrasound and radiograph often help assist in the diagnosis.

Endoscopy allows the veterinarian to see anatomical structures inside the horse including the upper respiratory tract. It can also be used to view other internal structures such as the urethra, bladder, and uterus in the mare. The video endoscope is equipped with a monitor that allows the client to see the anatomical structures during the exam, to help them understand the nature of the horse’s condition. With the video endoscope images can be saved for later comparison or sent to a specialist for further diagnosis.

Reasons to request a respiratory exam:

-Abnormal noises while exercising or at rest

-feed and other debris coming from the nose when eating

-cough

-nasal discharge

-exaggerated breathing or increased respiratory rate or overt respiratory distress

-poor performance

-allow assessment of the upper airway