Analysis of Pulmonary Neutrophil Elastase (PNE) levels in equine blood samples provides valuable diagnostic information, particularly in cases of suspected inflammatory airway disease (IAD). Elevated PNE concentrations often correlate with the severity of lower airway inflammation in horses, offering a quantifiable measure of neutrophil activity. For example, a horse with recurrent airway obstruction (RAO), a common form of IAD, may exhibit significantly higher PNE levels during an active episode compared to periods of remission.
This diagnostic tool offers a more objective assessment of airway inflammation than relying solely on clinical signs, such as coughing or nasal discharge. Utilizing PNE analysis allows veterinarians to monitor treatment efficacy and adjust therapeutic strategies accordingly. Historically, diagnosing IAD relied heavily on subjective assessments and less specific diagnostic tests. The advent of readily available PNE analysis represents a significant advancement in equine respiratory health management, enabling more accurate diagnosis, targeted treatment, and improved patient outcomes.
