Related Experiment Videos
Cranial mediastinal cysts in nine cats
Lisa J Zekas1, William M Adams
1Department of Surgical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 53706, USA.
Summary
Cranial mediastinal cysts are common in older cats and often asymptomatic. These benign cysts typically do not require treatment, even when discovered incidentally.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Feline Medicine
Background:
- Cranial mediastinal cysts are uncommon findings in cats.
- Older cats are more prone to developing mediastinal masses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the ultrasonographic and radiographic findings of cranial mediastinal cysts in cats.
- To evaluate the clinical significance and prognosis of these cysts.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of nine cats diagnosed with cranial mediastinal cysts.
- Analysis of thoracic radiographs, ultrasonography, and necropsy findings.
- Assessment of clinical signs and outcomes following diagnosis.
Main Results:
- All nine cats were older (11-17 years), with a mean age of 13.6 years.
- Radiographs showed increased soft tissue opacity in the cranial mediastinum.
- Ultrasonography revealed anechoic masses, and aspiration yielded clear, low-cellularity fluid.
- Eight of nine cats were asymptomatic for the cyst, presenting for unrelated conditions.
- No treatment was required for most cysts; some were drained via aspiration.
- Follow-up in eight cats showed no cyst-related symptoms for 3-45 months.
Conclusions:
- Cranial mediastinal cysts should be considered in older cats with radiographic evidence of a cranial mediastinal mass.
- The majority of feline cranial mediastinal cysts are benign and do not necessitate treatment.
- These cysts are generally asymptomatic and have a favorable prognosis.