Suspected primary mycotic rhinitis and paranasal sinusitis in seven horses (2013–2019)

Abstract

SummaryThis manuscript reports seven horses suffering from mycotic rhinitis and paranasal sinusitis and describes the clinical signs, treatments and outcomes. Mycotic plaques were observed in the nasal portion of the ethmoidal labyrinth and ipsilateral nasal passage during rhinoscopy in one horse and in the paranasal sinuses during sinoscopy in six horses. Fungal culture was positive in five horses with predominance of Aspergillusspp. (n = 3). Surgical debridement was performed under rhinoscopic guidance and sinoscopic guidance through a trephine hole or directly via a bone flap. Medical treatment included topical application directly to the affected area with clotrimazole, enilconazole, nystatin or amphotericin B (mean of 10.1 ± 13.4 applications during hospitalisation) and additional inhalation of nystatin or amphotericin B (mean of 7.5 days of nebulisation during hospitalisation). The mean ± s.d. duration of hospitalisation was 12.9 ± 9.2 days. Six horses were available for long‐term follow‐up. The mean ± s.d. number of follow‐up examinations was 2.8 ± 2.6 consultations. Based on follow‐up endoscopic evaluations, it took up to 5 months to observe complete regression of the mycotic plaques. In conclusion, mycotic rhinitis and sinusitis can be effectively treated with repeated surgical debridement and topical antifungal therapeutics, associated with a good long‐term prognosis.