Efficacy of dexamethasone, salbutamol, and reduced respirable particulate concentration on aerobic capacity in horses with smoke-induced mild asthma

BACKGROUND: Mild asthma in horses decreases racing performance and impairs gas exchange. The efficacy of treatment on performance is unknown. HYPOTHESIS: peak in horses with mild asthma. ANIMALS: ]; day mean, centrally measured) from day -33 to 0, from bushfire smoke (natural model). METHODS: ); day 17-15-30mins after inhaled salbutamol (1500 μg). Bronchoalveolar lavage and mucus scoring were performed on day -8 and day 20. Linear mixed effects models were used to examine the effects of timepoint and treatment group on BAL differential cell counts, mucus scores, aerobic and anaerobic variables. RESULTS: peak between treatment groups (SALINE versus DEX) at any timepoint. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: This study highlighted the key role of improved air quality on functionally important airway inflammation. Evidence provided is central to increasing owner compliance regarding improved air quality for the treatment and prevention of mild asthma.