Guttural Pouch Diseases Causing Neurologic Dysfunction in the Horse

Abstract

Several diseases of the guttural pouches have been described in the literature, and the comprehensive evaluation of these structures is an important element of the clinical exam. Guttural pouch abnormalities form part of an important group of differential diagnoses for horses presenting dysphagia, cough, fever, nasal discharge, epistaxis, and abnormal cranial nerve function. This text will address the descriptive anatomy of the guttural pouch, emphasizing the nervous structures in direct contact with it and the possible neurologic signs resulting from disease. We will also review the major literature regarding guttural pouch diseases associated with neurologic abnormalities.