[Select changes in the upper airways of the horse – an overview].

Objective Overview: This research article discusses different dynamic obstructive diseases that occur in the pharyngeal and laryngeal area of horses. These diseases are identifiable through high-speed treadmill endoscopy and can be responsible for decreased exercise tolerance in horses. The article also mentions that the unique anatomy of the horse’s guttural pouches makes them susceptible to certain species-specific diseases.

Detailed Explanation

• The research paper focuses on the upper airway diseases that affect horses, primarily in the pharyngeal and laryngeal area. It mentions how these diseases, owing to the horse’s natural structure (obligate nasal breathers meaning they breathe through the nose) and dependence on patency (clearness or openness) of their nasal passages, have a significant impact on their health and fitness levels.
• The researchers employed a method called high speed treadmill endoscopy to differentiate between several dynamic obstructive diseases. High speed treadmill endoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows the visualization of a horse’s respiratory tract while it is exercising on a treadmill. This method provides a real-time and more accurate insight into the presence and extent of any potential respiratory diseases in horses.
• The article also alludes to how these diseases can affect the exercise tolerance of equine athletes. Exercise intolerance refers to an inability to maintain expected levels of physical activity. In the context of equine athletes, it implies that the horses affected by the obstructive diseases may not be able to perform at their peak athletic abilities due to difficulties in breathing or other related symptoms associated with the diseases.
• Lastly, the researchers delve into the horse’s anatomical specialty – the guttural pouches – and how this unique structure predisposes them to species-specific diseases. Guttural pouches in horses are large, air-filled diverticula of the Eustachian tube (a tube that links the pharynx to the middle ear). Their distinct structure and location make them vulnerable to certain infections and diseases that are specifically related to horses.