Tracheal Collapse

Tracheal Collapse



Basic Information image



Definition




• Tracheal collapse is a condition characterized by dorsoventral narrowing of the tracheal lumen associated with flaccidity of the dorsal membrane and loss of the circular contour of the tracheal rings.



Epidemiology



Species, Age, Sex




• Age distribution may be bimodal, with approximately one third of cases reported in foals and two thirds of cases reported in horses, donkeys, and mules older than 10 years.



Genetics and Breed Predisposition




• Most reported cases have been in ponies and Miniature Horses, suggesting a breed predisposition. Cases have also been reported in donkeys and mules.



Geography and Seasonality




• Animals may be more affected during hot, humid months of the year.



Clinical Presentation



History, Chief Complaint




• Clinical signs noted by the owner may include exercise intolerance, respiratory noise, dyspnea, and paroxysmal coughing (classic honking).



Physical Exam Findings




• Auscultation of the thorax and trachea can be used to determine the point of maximal intensity of the respiratory noise. In addition, the phase of respiration during which stridor is apparent may help determine the location of collapse (expiration = intrathoracic; inspiration = extrathoracic). Palpation of the trachea may induce a cough. The trachea may have prominent lateral borders on palpation.



Etiology and Pathophysiology




• Etiology is currently unknown. However, congenital and degenerative defects in the tracheal cartilage have been proposed as well as neuromuscular disorders associated with weakening of the trachealis muscle and changes in respiratory tract pressures associated with lung disease.


• In most cases, the decrease in dorsoventral distance is related to flattening of the circular shape of the tracheal cartilages and collapse of the trachealis muscle. Separation of the trachealis muscle from the tracheal cartilages dorsally without a change in the cartilage shape has also been seen.

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Jul 24, 2016 | Posted by in SMALL ANIMAL | Comments Off on Tracheal Collapse

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