Endoscopic examination of the choanae in dogs and cats: 118 cases (1988-1998).

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether endoscopic examination of the choanae resulted in diagnosis of various diseases in dogs and cats with signs of respiratory tract disease.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

ANIMALS

91 dogs and 27 cats that had endoscopic examination of the choanae.

PROCEDURE

Medical records were reviewed for endoscopy findings and results of examination of biopsy or cytologic specimens.

RESULTS

34 animals had neoplasia in the choanal region; in 26 animals, diagnosis was confirmed by evaluation of specimens obtained by endoscopy. Five dogs with neoplasia had an erroneous diagnosis of rhinitis made on the basis of evaluation of specimens obtained by endoscopy. Six dogs and 2 cats had foreign objects in the choanae; 7 foreign objects were removed endoscopically, whereas 1 required nasal flushing. Results of endoscopy and biopsy of the choanae provided diagnosis of cryptococcosis and aspergillosis, but did not aid in the diagnosis of pythiosis or nasal mites.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Endoscopic examination of the choanae may assist in rapid diagnosis of nasal neoplasms, foreign objects, and certain infectious organisms.