Carlos Jimenez

and 3 more

Background: Epiglottitis is an uncommon upper airway pathology characterized by inflammation and swelling of the epiglottal mucosa and/or subepiglottal tissues. Only one report exists in the literature of epiglottitis in horses, which documents the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of the condition. Objectives: To describe the evaluation, treatment, and outcome of thoroughbred and standardbred racehorses diagnosed with epiglottitis at our hospital. A secondary objective is to demonstrate the efficacy of inhaled and topical anti-inflammatories for this condition. Study design: Retrospective case series. Methods: Medical records (2009-2023) were reviewed for racehorses treated for epiglottitis. Data collected included signalment, history, endoscopic findings, treatment progression, hospitalization duration, and any reason for re-admission. Race records were obtained to determine days to first race, earnings, and career length. Horses were classified into three groups based on the severity of the epiglottitis. Results: Presenting complaint, interpretation of the endoscopic examination, treatment, progression and outcome were recorded. Of the 24 horses included, 16 were referred for surgical correction of epiglottic entrapment. Other reasons for referral included dysphagia and upper respiratory stridor. Horses were treated with systemic, topical and inhaled anti-inflammatories. Hospitalization ranged from 1 to 43 days. Time to first race ranged from 18 to 175 days. Twenty-two horses returned to racing; Eight horses were re-admitted, including six for recurrent epiglottitis and two for other airway pathologies. Main limitations: The major limitations include those inherent to a retrospective report. The results would be stronger with higher case numbers. Additionally, we did not have sufficient numbers to compare outcomes of horses treated with inhaled medications versus those that were not. Racehorses inevitably develop other racing-related problems which confound studies of this nature. Conclusions: Epiglottitis is an uncommon upper airway pathology that, when properly diagnosed, can be treated successfully with a good prognosis for return to athletic function.