Relationship between pharyngeal conformation and otitis media with effusion in Cavalier King Charles spaniels
- G. M. Hayes, MA, VetMB, CertSAS, MRCVS1,
- E. J. Friend, BVetMed, CertSAS, DipECVS, MRCVS1 and
- N. D. Jeffery, BVSc, PhD, CertSAO, DipSAS, DipECVN, DipECVS, FRCVS2
- 1 Queen's Veterinary School Hospital, University of Cambridge, Madingley Road, Cambridge CB3 0ES
- 2 Small Animal Hospital, University of Bristol, Langford, North Somerset BS40 5DU
- E-mail for correspondence: gh327{at}cam.ac.uk
Abstract
Otitis media with effusion (OME) is a common incidental finding in otherwise normal Cavalier King Charles spaniels (CKCS). In this study, measurements made on MRI were used to determine whether there was an association between OME and brachycephalic conformation. The results confirm that association and also demonstrate that, in CKCS, greater thickness of the soft palate and reduced nasopharyngeal aperture are significantly associated with OME. These results suggest that auditory tube dysfunction and OME may represent a previously overlooked consequence of brachycephalic conformation in dogs.
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