Unilateral Nasal Discharge in the Horse - Aetiology, Diagnostics and Therapy

Unilateral nasal discharge in the horse - aetiology, diagnostics and therapy

Introduction
Nasal discharge is an easily recognizable sign of disease for the owner. Horses are often presented with this symptom to veterinarians. Most of the cases are of subacute (2 month) duration. A distinction is made between unilateral and bilateral nasal discharge. It is an externally visible symptom that may be caused by various diseases. Unilateral nasal discharge may be the sign of a life-threatening disease (e.g. heavy bleeding in consequence of guttural pouch mycosis) which must be treated as an emergency and accordingly by a veterinarian (1), or may be a chronic condition. In most cases, the latter requires extensive diagnostics, but this can be performed without time pressure and with the required diligence. […]