The application of exhaled breath analysis in racing thoroughbreds and the influence of high intensity exercise and ambient temperature on the concentration of carbon monoxide and pH in exhaled breath

Cathcart, M.P., Love, S., Sutton, D.G.M. , Reardon, R.J.M. and Hughes, K.J. (2013) The application of exhaled breath analysis in racing thoroughbreds and the influence of high intensity exercise and ambient temperature on the concentration of carbon monoxide and pH in exhaled breath. Veterinary Journal, 197(2), pp. 318-323. (doi: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2012.12.022)

Full text not currently available from Enlighten.

Abstract

<p>Analyses of exhaled breath (EB) and exhaled breath condensate (EBC) are non-invasive modalities for assessing the lower airways but these methods have not been applied to Thoroughbred racehorses in training. The aims of this study were to determine whether EB and EBC could be obtained from Thoroughbred racehorses in the field and to investigate the effects of exercise per se and during different ambient temperatures and humidity on exhaled concentrations of nitric oxide (eNO), carbon monoxide (eCO) and EBC pH. EB and EBC samples were obtained from 28 Thoroughbred racehorses pre- and post-exercise during warm (n = 23) and/or cold (n = 19) ambient temperatures.</p> <p>eNO was detected in 19/84 EB samples. eCO was measured in 39/42 EB samples pre-exercise (median 1.3 ppm) and concentrations decreased significantly post-exercise (median 0.8 ppm, P < 0.005) and were associated with ambient temperature. EBC pH was 4.51 ± 0.23 pre-exercise and increased significantly post-exercise (4.79 ± 0.59, P = 0.003). The study documented the collection of EB and EBC from Thoroughbred racehorses in a field setting. Alterations in concentrations of volatile gases and EBC pH occurred in response to exercise, and were likely to have been influenced by environmental factors.</p>

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Reardon, Mr Richard and Love, Professor Sandy and Hughes, Mr Kristopher and Sutton, Professor David
Authors: Cathcart, M.P., Love, S., Sutton, D.G.M., Reardon, R.J.M., and Hughes, K.J.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
Journal Name:Veterinary Journal
Publisher:Elsevier Ltd
ISSN:1090-0233
ISSN (Online):1532-2971

University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record