Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Laryngeal Disease in Dogs and Cats: An Update.
- Journal:
- The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice
- Year:
- 2020
- Authors:
- MacPhail, Catriona M
- Affiliation:
- Department of Clinical Sciences · United States
Plain-English summary
Laryngeal diseases in dogs and cats can cause problems with breathing due to blockages in the upper airway. The most common issue is laryngeal paralysis, which affects how the larynx (the voice box) works. Diagnosing this condition requires careful monitoring during anesthesia to see how the larynx moves while the pet breathes. Surgery can help improve breathing and overall quality of life for dogs, but there are risks, such as pneumonia from inhaling food or water, and some pets may develop more widespread nerve issues. Another serious condition is laryngeal collapse, often seen in breeds with short noses, and while tumors in the larynx can occur, they usually have a poor outlook regardless of treatment.
Abstract
Laryngeal diseases are manifested by obstructive breathing patterns reflecting functional or mechanical upper airway obstruction. Laryngeal paralysis is the most common disease of the larynx. Diagnosis requires close attention to anesthetic plane and coordination of respiratory effort with laryngeal motion. Surgical arytenoid lateralization improves clinical signs and quality of life in dogs; however, aspiration pneumonia is a recognized complication, and generalized neuropathy can progress. Laryngeal collapse can result from any cause of chronic upper airway obstruction but is most often associated with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome. Although uncommon, laryngeal neoplasia has a guarded to grave prognosis regardless of treatment.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31882166/