Guttural pouch

Guttural Pouch

The Guttural Pouch is a large, air-filled cavity unique to certain species of animals, notably the equine family. It is located in the skull, extending from the Eustachian tube and is divided into two compartments by a septum. Each pouch can hold up to 1500ml of air.

Anatomy

The guttural pouch is a unique anatomical feature found in members of the Perissodactyla order, which includes horses, donkeys, and zebras. It is an extension of the auditory tube, also known as the Eustachian tube, and is located in the skull behind the jaw and beneath the ear canal. The pouch is divided into two compartments by a septum, with each compartment capable of holding up to 1500ml of air.

Function

The exact function of the guttural pouch is not fully understood. However, it is believed to play a role in regulating the temperature of blood flowing to the brain, as well as aiding in the equalization of air pressure across the tympanic membrane.

Clinical significance

The guttural pouch is susceptible to a number of diseases and conditions, including guttural pouch tympany, guttural pouch empyema, and guttural pouch mycosis. These conditions can cause a variety of symptoms, including difficulty swallowing, nasal discharge, and in severe cases, neurological deficits.

See also

• Horse anatomy
• Eustachian tube
• Perissodactyla

External links

• Guttural Pouch Diseases at Merck Veterinary Manual