Ethmoid haematoma
Ethmoid haematoma’s are blood clots within the sinus that has formed into a mass. The haematoma can be seen on x-rays or by visualising the mass using an endoscope. The openings in this skull show the sinuses. The sinuses are areas of hollow bone within the skull. There are four sinuses in total the frontal, sphenopalatine, caudal maxillary and rostral maxillary sinus. The clinical signs of sinus disease include a nasal discharge, often containing blood, facial swelling and reduced airflow through the nostrils The best way to look into sinuses is by radiographs, this can show the presence of any masses or fluid as the sinuses are air-filled. Endoscopy can also be used to assess any swelling of the sinuses into the nasal passages and to visualise the area the sinus joins the airways as this is where fluid may drain to cause a nasal discharge.
Sinus cysts
Cysts can form in young animals, though the cause is unknown.
The cysts can be seen on x-rays and must be removed surgically.
Infection (sinusitis)
Infection within the sinuses can occur as a primary problem or, more commonly, secondarily to other problems such as dental disease.
Signs
Affected animals will have a nasal discharge, usually out of one nostril, which may contain streaks of blood. Horses may also have facial swelling and signs of dental disease.
An X-ray of a horses head from the side.
Diagnosis
Radiographs show the presence of fluid within the sinus. Endoscopy is useful as fluid can be seen draining from the sinuses into the nasal passages.
Treatment
Antibiotic treatment is used this, however, may not be enough to resolve the infection and surgery is frequently required. The surgical treatment is to drain the fluid by creating a hole into sinus through the skull and flushing it regularly. In cases where a dental problem has caused the infection this should be addressed, often by removing the affected tooth.
An X-ray of a horses head from the front.
Treatment
Treatment is usually by removing the mass surgically