Atheroma of the False Nostril in Horses
Key takeaways
Atheromas of the false nostril in horses are non-painful masses that develop into soft to firm mass on the side of the face.
- It is a congenital condition that becomes more apparent in adulthood as the mass grows
- Diagnosis involves physical examination, medical history, and biopsy of the growth
- In most cases, these masses are a purely cosmetic concern and do not require treatment -In some cases, the masses may block the airway partially, causing poor performance or increased respiratory noise
- If needed, treatment primarily involves surgical removal of the cyst, but can also include repeated drainage
- Prognosis is very good with or without treatment as this condition is not detrimental to overall health
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A closer look: Atheroma of the False Nostril in Horses
Atheromas are not a danger to overall health and are typically a cosmetic issue. In some cases, very large atheromas can partially block the airway, causing poor performance during exercise. Atheromas are unlikely to return after surgical removal.
Risk factors
In some cases, atheromas can partially block the airway, causing respiratory signs.
Since the cause of atheromas is unknown, it is difficult to determine specific risk factors.
Possible causes
Atheromas are congenital, meaning they are present at birth. Over time, the atheroma becomes more visible within the nostril as it grows in size. The reason some horses are born with atheromas is unknown.
Main symptoms
The main symptom is a large mass within the false nostril of the horse, appearing as a lump on the side of the face. Typically these masses are soft to firm and spherical, and are not painful when manipulated. Atheromas can change in size over time.
Testing and diagnosis
Diagnostics involve a physical examination, ultrasound of the mass, cytology, and a biopsy of the growth.
Steps to Recovery
Treatment is typically not needed for the health of the horse, as the masses are usually a cosmetic problem. In cases where treatment is desired by the owner, or the horse is experiencing poor performance, the primary treatment method for the atheroma is surgical removal of the cyst. If less invasive treatment is required, repeated drainage of the cyst is also an option.
Surgical removal is curative and recurrence is not expected.
Prevention
This condition is congenital and therefore cannot be prevented. The mass generally grows over time, so early detection may allow for faster intervention and less invasive surgery, if treatment is desired at all.
Atheroma of the false nostril is not contagious.
Is Atheroma of the False Nostril in Horses common?
This condition is uncommon in horses.
Typical Treatment
- Benign neglect
- Surgical removal
- Cyst drainage
