[Bronchoaveolar lavage for the diagnosis of lower airway disorders in horses].

This research investigates the use of Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) as a key diagnostic tool in early detection of Small Airway Disease (SAD) and other lower airway disorders in horses, before other symptoms present.

Exploration of Equine Lower Airway Diseases

• This research focuses on pulmonary diseases in horses, specifically conditions affecting the lower airways. The terminology of these diseases, however, has been subject to debate, which is discussed in the article.
• Within the broader category of equine lower airway disorders, some well-established terms include ‘Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease’ (COPD) and Chronic bronchitis.
• A term that has recently been introduced is ‘small airway disease’ (SAD). SAD refers to respiratory conditions where there is inflammation in the lower airways, typically associated with exercise intolerance in horses.

Role of Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL) in Detection of SAD

• Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is a procedure that provides an avenue for early diagnosis of SAD, even in the absence of other symptoms such as coughing or tracheal exudate.
• BAL involves introducing fluid into the bronchoalveolar ducts and subsequently aspirating it for examination. The retrieved fluid offers clinicians significant insight into the health status of the horse’s lower airways.
• The fluid obtained through the BAL procedure is studied under a microscope after undergoing centrifugation for preparation.

BAL Cytology and Therapeutic Decisions

• Critical examination of BAL fluid or BAL cytology is crucial not only for diagnosing SAD but also for informing the treatment approach.
• Presence of high levels of certain cells such as neutrophils, eosinophils, and mast cells in the BAL fluid can indicate inflammation associated with SAD.
• The level of these cells provides valuable information which can guide the practitioner in deciding the most appropriate therapy against the detected disorder.