Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Idiopathic chronic eosinophilic pneumonia in 7 horses.
- Journal:
- Journal of veterinary internal medicine
- Year:
- 2008
- Authors:
- Bell, S A et al.
- Affiliation:
- Department of Pathology · United States
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
This study looked at seven adult horses, aged between 8 and 20 years, that were diagnosed with a type of lung disease called idiopathic chronic eosinophilic pneumonia, which means the cause is unknown and involves a specific type of white blood cell called eosinophils. The horses showed signs of chronic respiratory issues, such as rapid breathing and unusual sounds when breathing, and X-rays showed significant lung changes. Tests of their lung fluid and blood confirmed the presence of eosinophils, and lung biopsies also showed these cells in the lung tissue. Three of the horses were treated with a medication called dexamethasone, which led to short-term improvement in their symptoms. Overall, while the treatment helped temporarily, the underlying condition remains a concern.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Idiopathic chronic eosinophilic pneumonia of horses is incompletely described. OBJECTIVES: To describe the physical examination, clinicopathologic, histopathologic, and radiographic features and response to corticosteroid treatment of idiopathic chronic eosinophilic pneumonia of horses. ANIMALS: Seven horses with eosinophilic pneumonia. METHODS: Retrospective, descriptive study. RESULTS: Anamnesis, clinical signs, and clinicopathologic and radiologic findings in 7 adult horses with histologically confirmed eosinophilic pneumonia were reviewed. The horses were examined for signs of chronic respiratory disease. The horses ranged in age from 8 to 20 years. Significant findings on physical examination included tachypnea and abnormal respiratory sounds. Thoracic radiography revealed severe diffuse interstitial patterns of increased pulmonary density in all horses. There was a predominance of eosinophils in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and 6 of 7 horses had peripheral blood eosinophilia. Lung biopsies revealed eosinophilic infiltrates in all horses. Dexamethasone was administered to 3 horses and resulted in short-term clinical improvement in all three. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: A diagnosis of idiopathic eosinophilic pneumonia should be considered in horses with a history of chronic pulmonary disease, diffuse interstitial pattern of increased pulmonary density on thoracic radiographs, and a predominance of eosinophils in BALF. Horses with this condition may show a temporary response to treatment with dexamethasone.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18466259/