CT Diagnosis of Bilateral Tonsillar Polyps in a Dog

Bilateral Tonsillar Polyps in a Dog Described on CT

Ernest Martinez, Melanie J. Dobromylskyj, Mark J. Plested

Background
Tonsillar masses in dogs are often associated with neoplasia, particularly squamous cell carcinoma, while benign polyps are rarely documented. This case report describes the computed tomographic (CT) findings of bilateral tonsillar polyps in a 13-year-old Labradoodle, marking the first reported case of this condition in veterinary literature. The study highlights the diagnostic role of CT in assessing oropharyngeal obstructions and guiding surgical management.

Methods
A 13-year-old male neutered Labradoodle presented with a one-year history of progressive stridor, gagging, and intermittent coughing. CT imaging of the head, neck, and thorax was performed using a 16-slice CT scanner pre- and post-contrast. A bilateral tonsillectomy was conducted, and the excised masses were submitted for histopathology. The patient was monitored postoperatively for recurrence.

Results
CT imaging revealed two well-defined, pedunculated soft tissue masses arising from the tonsillar crypts, with the left mass measuring 20 mm and extending into the nasopharynx, causing partial airway obstruction. The right mass was smaller (9 mm) and remained in the oropharynx. Both masses showed moderate contrast enhancement but no evidence of lymphadenopathy or invasive behavior. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of lymphangiomatous tonsillar polyps. The dog recovered well post-surgery, with no recurrence detected at the three-month follow-up.

Limitations
This is a single-case report, limiting generalizability. The underlying etiology of the polyps remains uncertain, and no long-term follow-up beyond three months was available to assess the risk of recurrence. The role of chronic inflammation in polyp formation requires further study.

Conclusions
Bilateral tonsillar polyps should be considered as a differential diagnosis for oropharyngeal masses, particularly in cases without lymphadenopathy. CT is a valuable diagnostic tool for assessing airway obstruction and planning surgical intervention, but histopathology remains essential for definitive diagnosis. This case emphasizes the importance of considering benign lesions in addition to neoplasia when evaluating tonsillar masses in dogs.

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