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Published on: September 22, 2023
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.
Abstract:
Localized infection of the nasal or paranasal cavities caused by Aspergillus spp or Penicillium spp was diagnosed in 3 cats. Clinical signs included chronic mucopurulent nasal discharge, epistaxis, and mandibular lymphadenopathy. Rhinoscopic and diagnostic imaging findings were compatible with severe inflammation of the nasal mucosa and destruction of the turbinates. Fungal plaques were observed rhinoscopically in 2 cats, and histologic examination of biopsy specimens revealed fungal colonies with surrounding inflammatory infiltrates in all 3. Results of fungal culture were negative for all 3 cats. Results of serum immunoelectrophoresis for antibodies against Aspergillus spp were positive in 2 cats. Treatment with itraconazole was effective in controlling clinical signs in 1 cat, but hepatotoxicosis developed. A single intranasal infusion of clotrimazole subsequently led to long-term resolution of clinical signs in this cat. Localized aspergillosis-penicilliosis is clinically indistinguishable from other pathologic conditions of the nasal and paranasal cavities in cats and should be considered when examining cats with chronic nasal discharge.
Insights
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.
