32 SPECIAL EQUINE THERAPY 



The diagnosis is made in old horses by observing a 

 gradually increasing dysphagia, unaccompanied by fever 

 or local evidences of pharyngeal disease, such as swelling 

 or soreness. The condition may possibly be confused 

 with the dysphagia occurring in some cases of spinal or 

 cerebro-spinal meningitis, as well as with the dysphagia 

 of meningism. The comparatively rapid development 

 of other signs common to these diseases promptly pre- 

 cludes the existence of senile paralysis of the pharynx. 



Cases of pharyngeal paralysis resulting from injuries 

 are ruled out by the rapidity with which they become 

 established, as well as by usual evidences of trauma. 

 Cases of dysphagia, due to stenosis in old horses, are 

 usually accompanied by snoring or whistling. 



Senile pharyngeal paralysis is due to sclerotic proc- 

 esses in the brain and spinal cord in all instances. 



