Archive Case #66: Equine Sinusitis

Clinical Clues

1. A horse is examined for persistent unilateral nasal discharge that has become foul smelling.
2. The discharge is worse when the head is lowered during eating.
3. There is mild facial sensitivity over one sinus region.
4. Airflow from both nostrils is still present, but only one side is affected by discharge.
5. Endoscopy and imaging support fluid accumulation within the paranasal sinus system.
6. Inflammation or infection within the equine sinuses commonly causes unilateral purulent nasal discharge.

Diagnosis

Equine Sinusitis

This case is most consistent with Equine Sinusitis because the horse has unilateral malodorous nasal discharge localised to the sinus region. The most important clues are the one-sided discharge and sinus fluid accumulation, which make a lower respiratory problem much less likely.

Educational Use

Vetdle archive cases are educational veterinary games for diagnostic reasoning practice. They do not provide veterinary advice, diagnosis, treatment, or professional medical guidance.