DOI: 10.5176/2382-5685_VETSCI13.54
Authors: Moayer Fariborz
Abstract:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is one of the most common respiratory disorders of the horse in temperate areas of the world, and occurs particularly where horses are stabled for long periods and fed products. COPD is characterized clinically by decreased work performance, chronic coughing, abnormal lung sounds and varying degrees of pulmonary and cardiac dysfunction. It is believed that the syndrome may be caused by a localized type III reaction to spore-forming organisms or dust. Although, this disease is not related to gender and race, but there is evidence that it is hereditary and in ponies is more common than other horses. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence and treatment of COPD in Caspian pony horses in Tehran horse farms from 2003 to 2013. In this period, 27 affected ponies (15.88{6e6090cdd558c53a8bc18225ef4499fead9160abd3419ad4f137e902b483c465}) were found with respiratory distress and low performance. To confirm the diagnosis, bronchoscopic examination and broncho alveolar lavage was performed. On the basis of this study, the incidence of COPD in Iranian Caspian ponies is high and few of them will respond to treatment. Although, Corticosteroids, Antihistamines and Bronchodilators can be useful, but the environmental control is one of the major importance therapeutically.
Keywords: Horse, COPD, Caspian ponies, Iran
