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Disorders of the pharynx
Eileen K Sullivan1, Eric J Parente
1Department of Clinical Sciences, Colorado State University, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital Fort Collins, CO 80523-1620, USA. esulliv@lamarcolostate.edu
Abstract:
Pharyngeal disorders are complex and difficult to treat. Disorders that lead to anatomic derangement, such as trauma and neoplasia, can significantly affect the function of this organ. Pharyngeal dysfunction can manifest as dysphagia, persistent palatal displacement, or exercise intolerance. Secondary complications are serious and life threatening and include aspiration pneumonia, weight loss, and death. Pharyngeal disorders that are only recognizable during strenuous exercise are difficult to diagnose and are treated with limited success, even though they are responsible for significant economic losses with performance animals.
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