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Fungal rhinitis and sinusitis in three cats
Kamil Tomsa1, Tony M Glaus, Cindy Zimmer
1Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
Summary
Localized fungal infections in cats, caused by Aspergillus or Penicillium species, present with chronic nasal discharge and inflammation. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing these challenging nasal cavity conditions.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Mycology
- Feline Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fungal infections of the nasal and paranasal cavities in cats can cause significant clinical signs.
- Distinguishing fungal rhinitis from other nasal pathologies is clinically important.
Observation:
- Three cats presented with chronic mucopurulent nasal discharge, epistaxis, and lymphadenopathy.
- Rhinoscopy revealed severe nasal inflammation and turbinate destruction, with fungal plaques in two cases.
- Histopathology confirmed fungal elements and inflammation, though fungal cultures were negative.
Findings:
- Serum immunoelectrophoresis detected antibodies against Aspergillus spp. in two cats.
- Itraconazole treatment was partially effective but caused hepatotoxicosis in one cat.
- Intranasal clotrimazole achieved long-term resolution in the treated cat.
Implications:
- Localized aspergillosis-penicilliosis should be considered in cats with chronic nasal discharge.
- Diagnostic challenges include negative fungal cultures and the need for serological testing.
- Treatment may require a combination of systemic and local antifungal therapies.