Left Laryngeal Hemiplegia Cases in Two Foals

Laryngeal hemiplegia having negative effects on race performance has been defined in most racehorses. The cases presented here point out the laryngeal hemiplegia following upper airway disease in foals as a possible complication. Thoroughbred Arabians foals (having a previous treatment for the symptoms of upper airway infection) with a history of inspiratory whistling/roaring noise and exercise intolerance were examined. Endoscopic applications revealed grade III left laryngeal hemiplegia in cases with normal general health status and complete blood count. Esophagoscopy revealed no visible pathologic changes. There is also no evidence of arytenoid collapse in both cases. Surgery of laryngeal hemiplegia was not approved. The cases presented here reflect the laryngeal hemiplegia following upper airway disease in foals.