Jennifer L Demko1, Leah A Cohn. 1. Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To identify the most common etiologic diagnosis and any historical, physical, or other diagnostic variables associated with a definitive etiologic diagnosis for chronic nasal discharge in cats. Design-Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: 75 cats with nasal discharge of >/= 1 month's duration. PROCEDURES: Medical records of affected cats were reviewed for information on signalment, clinical signs, duration and type of nasal discharge, results of clinical examination, laboratory findings, and advanced imaging findings. RESULTS: A specific etiologic diagnosis for nasal discharge was identified in only 36% of cats. Neoplasia (carcinoma or lymphoma) was the most common etiologic diagnosis. Character and location of nasal discharge did not contribute greatly toward a specific etiologic diagnosis. Sneezing and vomiting were the most common concurrent clinical signs. Routine CBC, serum biochemical panel, and urinalysis did not contribute to a specific etiologic diagnosis. An etiologic diagnosis was more likely in older cats and cats that underwent advanced imaging studies and nasal biopsy. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Although advanced diagnostic testing, including imaging studies and biopsy, increases the likelihood of achieving an etiologic diagnosis, the cause of chronic nasal discharge in cats often remains elusive.
OBJECTIVE: To identify the most common etiologic diagnosis and any historical, physical, or other diagnostic variables associated with a definitive etiologic diagnosis for chronic nasal discharge in cats. Design-Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: 75 cats with nasal discharge of >/= 1 month's duration. PROCEDURES: Medical records of affected cats were reviewed for information on signalment, clinical signs, duration and type of nasal discharge, results of clinical examination, laboratory findings, and advanced imaging findings. RESULTS: A specific etiologic diagnosis for nasal discharge was identified in only 36% of cats. Neoplasia (carcinoma or lymphoma) was the most common etiologic diagnosis. Character and location of nasal discharge did not contribute greatly toward a specific etiologic diagnosis. Sneezing and vomiting were the most common concurrent clinical signs. Routine CBC, serum biochemical panel, and urinalysis did not contribute to a specific etiologic diagnosis. An etiologic diagnosis was more likely in older cats and cats that underwent advanced imaging studies and nasal biopsy. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Although advanced diagnostic testing, including imaging studies and biopsy, increases the likelihood of achieving an etiologic diagnosis, the cause of chronic nasal discharge in cats often remains elusive.
Authors: M R Lappin; J Blondeau; D Boothe; E B Breitschwerdt; L Guardabassi; D H Lloyd; M G Papich; S C Rankin; J E Sykes; J Turnidge; J S Weese Journal: J Vet Intern Med Date: 2017-02-10 Impact factor: 3.333