Computed tomographic features of clinically suspected rhinitis in domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus).

Background: The aim of this study was to characterise the computed tomographic (CT) findings in domestic rabbits with clinically suspected rhinitis and compare them with CT findings in rabbits without clinical signs of rhinitis.

Methods: CT images of rabbits that underwent a CT of the head were retrospectively reviewed and any CT abnormalities were described. Statistical analysis was performed to detect any association between the CT findings and clinical signs of rhinitis, and also to assess if there was any association between rhinitis and otitis media, otitis externa or dental disease.

Results: Thirty-three of the 133 rabbits included in the study had soft tissue-attenuating material within their nasal cavities and were therefore classified as having CT findings compatible with rhinitis. CT evidence of rhinitis was correlated with the presence of clinical signs of rhinitis and with the presence of otitis media. There was no statistical association between CT evidence of rhinitis and the presence of otitis externa or dental disease.

Limitations: The retrospective nature of the study, small sample size and lack of aetiological confirmation limit the conclusions that can be drawn from the findings.

Conclusion: Clinical signs of rhinitis were associated with CT abnormalities consistent with rhinitis and CT evidence of otitis media. The results of this study provide useful information for CT assessment of the nasal cavities of domestic rabbits and can be used as a reference for the diagnosis of rhinitis in this species.