Paranasal sinusitis complicated by inspissated exudate in the ventral conchal sinus.

This research focuses on a case study of five horses diagnosed with primary paranasal sinusitis that had become complicated due to hardened or thick secretions within the ventral conchal sinus. Following surgical intervention, all five horses showed complete resolution of the sinusitis.

Background

• This study revolves around the observation of five cases where horses were diagnosed with primary paranasal sinusitis. This is a condition characterized by inflammation of the paranasal sinus cavities, typically causing symptoms like nasal discharge or congestion.
• A complication developed in these animals wherein inspissated exudate formed within their ventral conchal sinus. Inspissation refers to the thickening or hardening of a particular substance, while exudate is a liquid produced in response to inflammation. Therefore, the horses had thick or hardened secretions congesting their conchal sinus.

Findings

• The horses presented with clinical symptoms including a one-sided, foul-smelling, mucus-filled nasal discharge that persisted from 2 to 7 months. Additionally, two horses showed partial nasal obstruction due to the distortion of their ventral concha, the largest and strongest part of the nasal concha.
• Through the use of radiographs, a mass of soft tissue, exhibiting the density associated with inspissated exudate, was observed dorsal to the roots of certain cheek teeth.

Treatment and Outcomes

• Next, bone flap maxillary sinusotomy, a surgical procedure involving the creation of an opening in the bone surrounding the maxillary sinus, was carried out. This procedure was done to expose the ventral nasal concha and facilitate the removal of the hardened exudate.
• Following the surgical intervention, all five horses showed complete resolution of the sinusitis, effectively demonstrating the success of the treatment method applied.

Conclusion

• This research provides valuable insight into the diagnosis and successful treatment of a complicated case of primary paranasal sinusitis in horses. The study thereby contributes to veterinary knowledge surrounding the management of sinusitis in large animals.