Redundant arytenoid mucosa: clinical presentation, treatment and outcome in three cats

• Published in: Journal of small animal practice Vol. 57; no. 1; pp. 40 - 43
• Main Authors: De Lorenzi, D., Mantovani, C., Tripaldi, F., Ferasin, H.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford, UK Blackwell Publishing Ltd 01-01-2016; Wiley Subscription Services, Inc
• Subjects: Airway Obstruction - complications; Airway Obstruction - diagnosis; Airway Obstruction - veterinary; Animals; Arytenoid Cartilage - abnormalities; Cat Diseases - diagnosis; Cat Diseases - pathology; Cats; Diagnosis, Differential; Female; Laryngoscopy - veterinary; Lasers; Male; Ostomy; Respiratory Sounds - etiology; Respiratory Sounds - veterinary
• ISSN: 0022-4510; 1748-5827
• DOI: 10.1111/jsap.12426

Three cats showing chronic, intermittent respiratory distress associated with increased noise on inspiration were examined. Head, neck and thoracic radiographs were unremarkable and laboratory findings were within normal ranges. In all three cats direct laryngoscopy revealed bilateral redundant arytenoid mucosa, which collapsed into the supraglottic and glottis airways during inspiration. Temporary tracheostomy and endoscopic diode laser excision of the excessive mucosa resolved symptoms in all three cats. Redundant arytenoid mucosa is a rare condition that may cause signs similar to laryngeal paralysis or laryngeal mass in cats. According to our results, diode laser surgery in association with temporary tracheostomy appears an appropriate mode of therapy.