What are Dermoid Sinus?
The malformation is most often seen in Rhodesian ridgeback dogs, but may also occur in cats. It is a very rare condition in cats, though, with only three documented cases. No breed, sex, or age predispositions have been identified, though research suggests that Burmese cats may have a higher disposition for developing dermoid sinus.
Dermoid sinus in cats is a congenital defect characterized by an opening on the back or neck. Beneath this opening is a tube, which drains and usually looks like skin with hair surrounding it. The tube may connect to tissue just beneath the skin, extend deeper to the spinal cord, or be detached completely, floating in the muscles.
Dermoid Sinus Average Cost
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Symptoms of Dermoid Sinus in Cats
Since it is a birth defect, signs of dermoid sinus will be apparent early on in a cat’s life. Dermoid sinuses may present no symptoms or may present symptoms associated with infection or neurologic abnormalities. Ensure you can recognize the signs of dermoid sinus, and seek immediate veterinary attention as soon as you notice any of the following:
- An opening on the back or neck
- A sac under the skin
- Hair around the opening, especially in a swirl pattern
- Evidence of a tube near the opening
- Discharge near the opening
- Abscesses near the opening (indicative of infection)
- Signs of neurologic abnormalities
Causes of Dermoid Sinus in Cats
The only known cause of dermoid sinus in cats is a congenital defect. The defect occurs when the skin and nervous system do not separate completely during the embryonic stage of development. The opening is often filled with keratin debris from the skin. When this debris builds up, it may cause abscesses and infection.
Diagnosis of Dermoid Sinus in Cats
Your vet will be able to make a tentative diagnosis based on a thorough physical examination and presentation of symptoms. Your vet may ask for your cat’s complete medical history, and may also want to know where you acquired the cat.
Physical examination is usually sufficient for making the definitive diagnosis. However, your vet may choose to insert a catheter into the opening in order to see how far the tube extends. The vet will do this by injecting a contrast material and then performing an x-ray. Since it is likely there is debris in the opening, the vet may need to conduct more thorough testing to examine the full length of the tube. These tests may include a CT scan, an MRI, and a myelography, which is an x-ray of the spinal cord using contrast injection.
Treatment of Dermoid Sinus in Cats
Treatment may not be required in mild cases that do not present any symptoms or signs of infection. Your vet will be able to advise you on a treatment plan based on your cat’s specific needs.
Dermoid sinuses that cause infection or discharge or affect the neurological system will need to be removed with surgery. At present, there is little literature on the specifics of the surgical procedure due to the rarity of the condition. However, current literature suggests that the procedure is generally straightforward in mild cases. Analgesics for pain management and other medications are generally not required following surgery.
Dermoid sinuses which connect to the spinal cord will require more aggressive surgery, which comes with higher risk of complications. Severe injury to the spinal cord during surgery may cause sudden death. If the entire sinus is not removed, the defect may recur. This will warrant a second exploratory surgery to find the part of the sinus that was not extracted initially. Other potential complications include breakage, migration, or improper positioning of the spinal implants. This may cause pain or injury to the spinal cord.
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Recovery of Dermoid Sinus in Cats
Recovery and prognosis are generally good following surgery, particularly in cases with no signs of neurological abnormality. Always follow your vet’s post-treatment and/or post-operative instructions carefully. If your cat has had surgery, ensure they have a warm, safe place to rest. Do not allow them to irritate the surgery site. An Elizabethan collar may help with this. You should check the surgery site daily to ensure there is no swelling or discharge.
If your cat’s dermoid sinus did not require surgery and you notice discharge or abscesses forming near the opening, you will need to contact your vet immediately. Dermoid sinuses that produce discharge or become infected will require surgical removal to prevent further complication.
Your vet may schedule follow-up appointments as needed to monitor healing. The vet may also take x-rays during these appointments to ensure that no complications have arisen and the entire sinus was removed.
If you have any questions, or if you notice the sinus start to redevelop, contact your vet immediately.
Dermoid Sinus Average Cost
From 288 quotes ranging from $300 - $1,500
Average Cost
$800
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Dermoid Sinus Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Cat
Bambi
3 Months
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Cant Walk
my 3 month old kitten just got the diagnose Dermoid Sinus. She cant walk or stand, but all looked normal on x-ray. then one day i noticed fluids comming from her back, and could feel somthing between her shoulderblades on her spine, so went to vet once more. thats when they learned she has Dermoid Sinus, and sadly hers goes way to deep down for anyone to dare try remove. but shes a happy and active kitten, and are just as fast as other cats, she just moves diffrently due to her issues. (sits on her right thigh and has both back legs out on left side, then pulls herselfs around) she is expected to live a long and great life even tho she is handicapped and cant walk, but its always a huge risk of infections.
Dermoid Sinus Average Cost
From 288 quotes ranging from $300 - $1,500
Average Cost
$800
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