A comparison of forced oscillatory measurements to bronchoalveolar lavage

Abstract

Based on the results, it can be said that all horses had some type of lower airway disorder, basically RAO or IAD. All the results which were taken into account from the FOM clearly showed that there were no obstructions in the respiratory system of the examined horses. The radiography showed no signs of a respiratory disease either. The BAL and the hematology on the other hand showed chronic inflammations in the bodies. The BAL is a specific tool for the diagnosis of the lower respiratory system and the hematology for a general health condition of the body. Three of the horses had a pathological result in the BAL, showing signs of a subclinical airway disease. Two of these horses were suspicious regarding allergies. Two of the horses which had a pathological result in the BAL also had a pathological result in the hematology, also showing signs of a chronic inflammatory disease.