Guttural Pouch Diseases Causing Neurologic Dysfunction in the Horse

Guttural Pouch Diseases Causing Neurologic Dysfunction in the Horse: 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 cranial nerve abnormalities. Endoscopy of the guttural pouches provides a unique opportunity to visualize nervous structures. Moreover, this is probably the only place where we are able to observe so many nervous structures simultaneously. There is a close anatomic relationship between the guttural pouches, cranial nerves, and sympathetic structures; therefore, several guttural pouch diseases can lead to neurologic abnormalities. Guttural pouch examination also allows evaluation of the temporohyoid joint, which aids in the differential diagnosis of vestibular or facial nerve dysfunction associated with fractures. 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.