140 IklANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 



DISEASES OF THE LARYNX. 



ACUTE LARYNGITIS.— Definition.— Is an inflamma- 

 tion of the lining membrane of the larynx. 



Two forms of acute laryngitis may be distinguished; 

 acute catarrhal laryngitis, and oedematous laryngitis. 



ACUTE CATARRHAL LARYNGITIS.— This is the 

 simplest form, and is dependent upon the same causes as 

 common catarrh, of which, indeed, it is usually one of the 

 earliest and most prominent symptoms. There is pain and 

 diflBculty in swallowing, and on manipulation of the throat. 

 Usually there is cough ; at first hard and sonorous, but 

 afterwards becoming less resonant. 



There is swelling in the submaxillary space and over the 

 parotid region. Nasal discharge may or may not be an 

 accompaniment, although it is a constant symptom when 

 catarrh is also present. 



Febrile symptoms are more pronounced than they are in 

 simple catarrh. There is diminution or loss of appetite, 

 elevated temperature, and acceleration of pulse. 



(EDEMATOUS LARYNGITIS.— The structural changes 

 in this form of laryngitis are distinctive. There is excessive 

 infiltration of the submucous tissues of the pharynx and 

 larynx, and the mucous membrane is pulpy and of a leaden 

 metallic hue. In some instances patches of ecchymosis and 

 gangrenous spots are met with on the inflamed membrane. 

 The rapidity with which the infiltration of the laryngeal 

 and neighbouring structures takes place, the suddenness of 

 the onset, and its frequently fatal termination, are dis- 

 tinguishing features of this form of laryngitis. (Edematous 

 laryngitis may succeed what at first appeared as an ordinary 

 case of the catarrhal form, or it may begin suddenly and 



