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Nasal dermoid sinus cysts in the dog

Davina M Anderson 1, Richard A S White

Background:
Nasal dermoid sinus cysts (NDSC) are rare congenital lesions in dogs, not previously documented in the veterinary literature before this study. These cysts are believed to result from abnormal development in the prenasal space during embryogenesis. Analogous to a known human condition, NDSCs are suspected to be ectodermal in origin and may potentially communicate with intracranial structures, causing serious complications if untreated.

Methods:
A retrospective review was conducted on six dogs treated for a discharging sinus located in the midline of the nose at two veterinary centers between 1995 and 1999. The clinical presentation, surgical approach, histopathologic findings, and outcomes were analyzed. Surgical excision involved tracing the tract through a dorsal midline incision, dissecting the tract from surrounding tissues, and submitting the specimen for histology.

Results:
All six dogs had a midline nasal pit with intermittent discharge and swelling; prior antibiotic treatments had failed, and three dogs had unsuccessful prior surgeries. Histology revealed stratified squamous epithelium with adnexal structures such as hair follicles and sebaceous glands, confirming ectodermal origin. Post-surgical follow-up (3 months to 2 years) indicated no recurrences or complications, except one dog who developed seizures unrelated to the NDSC. None showed evidence of intracranial extension based on radiography or MRI.

Limitations:
The study included a small number of cases and lacked advanced imaging for all subjects to conclusively rule out intracranial involvement. The embryological basis for the condition in dogs remains speculative and extrapolated from human models.

Conclusions:
NDSCs are a distinct and previously unrecognized congenital anomaly in dogs, most commonly affecting the nasal planum area in breeds like golden retrievers and spaniels. Complete surgical excision offers an excellent prognosis, but thorough diagnostic evaluation is necessary to exclude intracranial extension. This condition should be included in differential diagnoses for midline nasal discharges in young dogs.

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