This is a recurring problem in young horses and a critical problem in competition. The affections are bacterial, viral or mycological. The clinic and the visiting veterinarians have all the diagnostic tools at their disposal, both in terms of imaging (static and dynamic endoscopy, radiology) and differential diagnosis. The results are known in 30 minutes thanks to our laboratory.

Respiratory:

• Fibroscopy of the upper and deep airways using an optical fiber. The nasal cavities, ethmoid, larynx, pharynx, guttural pouches and trachea can be visualized.
• Workplace fibroscopy: on-board fibroscopy with live video visualization of airway reactions during exercise.
• Tracheal lavage: using the fiberscope or transcutaneously, a mucus sample or a tracheal lavage can be performed. This sample is then analyzed under the microscope to look at the proportions of cells, the presence of bacteria, pollen seeds, fungi, etc. A bacteriological and mycological culture can also be performed.
• Bronchoalveolar lavage: a lung wash is performed and the fluid is analyzed under the microscope. A cell count is performed. The presence of bacteria, seeds, pollen, fungi, etc. is confirmed or excluded. A bacteriological and mycological culture can also be performed.
• Pulmonary ultrasound: with the help of the ultrasound machine, the pulmonary pleura can be visualized.
• Chest X-ray: this examination can reveal pulmonary densifications (abscesses, tumors, etc.) as well as pneumothorax (air around the lung). This examination is always done in conjunction with a pulmonary ultrasound, as it is complementary to the latter.

Lung biopsy: For further examination, it is sometimes necessary to take a sample of lung tissue for analysis under the microscope (histopathology). The biopsy is taken in a standing horse under sedation.