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Aerosolized Micropolyspora faeni antigen as a cause of pulmonary dysfunction in ponies with recurrent airway

F J Derksen1, N E Robinson, J S Scott

  • 1Pulmonary Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824.

American Journal of Veterinary Research
|June 1, 1988
PubMed

Insights

Micropolyspora faeni antigen exposure exacerbated airway inflammation and altered pulmonary function in ponies with recurrent airway obstruction. This suggests M. faeni may be an important factor in equine chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Area of Science:

  • Equine respiratory medicine
  • Immunology
  • Pulmonary physiology

Background:

  • Recurrent airway obstruction (RAO) is a common respiratory condition in horses.
  • Micropolyspora faeni is a known environmental antigen implicated in respiratory diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of aerosolized Micropolyspora faeni antigen on ponies with and without recurrent airway obstruction.
  • To determine the role of M. faeni in the pathogenesis of equine chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Main Methods:

  • Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and pulmonary function tests were performed on principal (RAO) and control ponies.
  • Ponies received aerosolized saline or M. faeni antigen during disease remission.
  • BAL fluid and pulmonary mechanics were assessed 5 hours post-administration.

Main Results:

  • M. faeni antigen increased white blood cell count, neutrophils, and albumin in BAL fluid of both groups.
  • Macrophage counts decreased, and mast cell numbers decreased in principal ponies.
  • Pulmonary function changes (increased respiratory frequency, minute ventilation, pulmonary resistance; decreased arterial oxygen tension) were observed only in principal ponies.

Conclusions:

  • Aerosolized M. faeni antigen induces airway inflammation and pulmonary dysfunction specifically in ponies with RAO.
  • Neutrophils alone may not cause pulmonary dysfunction in RAO.
  • M. faeni is a potential etiologic agent in equine COPD.

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