Abstract

Summary
Objective of the present retrospective study was to describe the clinical,
ultrasonographic, radiographic and endoscopic findings and outcome
of 16 cattle with retropharyngeal abscess. Results: The most
common clinical findings were stertorous respiratory sounds (n = 14),
swelling of the cranial neck (n = 11), dyspnoea (n = 9) and coughing
(n = 7). In all of the animals ultrasonography revealed a circular structure
with an echogenic content that had the characteristic appearance
of an abscess. Radiography showed a soft tissue shadow dorsally in
the pharynx in all patients and gas inclusions in eight cattle. Endoscopy
of 15 patients revealed a swelling in the dorsal aspect of the pharynx in
13 animals and a fistulous tract in three cattle. Three animals were
slaughtered at the request of the owner because of concurrent disease.
Thirteen animals were treated: nine animals underwent an operation
and four received conservative medical treatment. Twelve of these
13 patients were healthy at a follow-up via telephone a minimum of
10 months post-treatment. Conclusion and clinical relevance: The
fact that all successfully treated patients were still healthy a minimum
of 10 months later emphasises the importance of a thorough diagnostic
work-up for ensuring a good outcome. A good prognosis relies on early
and correct diagnosis of the problem.