Horner's syndrome and ipsilateral laryngeal hemiplegia in three cats

Unilateral Laryngeal Paralysis Secondary to Otitis Media/Interna in Two Cats

Two adult cats were presented for coughing, gagging, dysphonia, exaggerated swallowing attempts, unilateral vestibular dysfunction, and/or Horner syndrome. In both cats, unilateral laryngeal paralysis was identified on the side ipsilateral to other neurological deficits. Cross-sectional imaging was consistent with otitis media/interna. In both cats, there also was extensive cellulitis surrounding the tympanic bulla and dissecting through tissue planes to involve the opening of the tympano-occipital fissure on the side ipsilateral to the laryngeal paralysis. Laryngeal paralysis was presumed secondary to involvement of the vagus nerve as it emerged from the tympano-occipital fissure. Antibiotic therapy resulted in resolution of clinical signs in both cats and restored laryngeal function as evidenced by visual examination of the larynx in one cat.

Second order Horner's syndrome in a cat

This case report describes the clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of a 3.5-year-old, male neutered, domestic shorthair cat with second order Horner's syndrome as the only clinical abnormality. The neuroanatomical pathway of the sympathetic innervation to the eye, differential diagnoses for Horner's syndrome in cats, and the interpretation of pharmacological testing are reviewed. The unusual MRI findings and the value of fat-suppressed MRI sequences are discussed.

Horner's syndrome associated with a mandibular symphyseal fracture and bilateral temporomandibular luxation

Interruption of the postganglionic neuron in the sympathetic pathway to the eye is reported to be a common cause of Horner's syndrome in the cat, although there are few clinical reports identifying the site and nature of the lesion responsible. A case of Horner's syndrome resulting from trauma to the periorbital structures following reduction of temporomandibular joint luxation is presented. In this case, the ophthalmic abnormalities resolved spontaneously over eight days.