The increased visibility of the bronchial walls (bronchial pattern) can be secondary to a
true bronchial wall thickening, mucosal thickening, peri-bronchial infiltration or a
combination of the aforementionedInfectious bronchitis – especially viral and/or bacterial – and allergic airway disease are
possible differential diagnoses. Parasitic, fungal and mycobacterial infections are low
for potential with the current radiographic presentation.
The aerophagia is most likely due to respiratory distress, discomfort, or pain
The clinical history of rather acute onset of the clinical signs does not parallel the
radiographic findings. Hence, other underlying causes of cough such as, upper airway
inflammation (laryngitis/tracheitis) should be considered as well.
An endoscopic examination with BAL, bloodwork and a fecal examination (rule out
lung worm infection) would be ideal for further definition. A clinical trial with
empirical antimicrobial treatment, theophylline, asthma spray and inhalation may be
considered as an alternative option if the aforementioned is not available.