Acupuncture impact on recurring airway obstruction in horses

case report

Abstract

The recurrent airway obstruction (RAO) is a chronic illness with etiology not well defined and higher incidence in older and stabled horses. Leads to airway obstruction by contraction of visceral muscles and accumulation of mucous plugs result of neutrophilic inflammation triggered by immune reaction induced by inhalation of allergen. This work reports the case of a female horse, 23, Mangalarga, diagnosed with RAO and treated with acupuncture. It was performed 12 sessions, resulting in significant improvement in respiratory condition of the animal, proven by measurement of respiratory parameters in each session and comparison of tracheal aspirates collected before and after treatment.