Merck Manual

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Pet Owner Version

Nasopharyngeal Polyps in Cats

By

Louis Norman Gotthelf

, DVM, Animal Hospital of Montgomery; Montgomery Pet Skin and Ear Clinic, Montgomery, AL

Reviewed/Revised Aug 2018 | Modified Oct 2022

Nasopharyngeal polyps Inflammatory Polyps Ear canal tumors may develop from any of the structures lining or supporting the ear canal, including the outer layer of skin, the glands that produce earwax and oil, or any of the bones, connective... read more can cause signs of upper respiratory disease, such as increased sounds associated with breathing, sneezing, and nasal discharge. These polyps typically arise from the middle ear and extend through the Eustachian tube into the nasopharynx. Occasionally they may arise from the Eustachian tube or throat lining. The cause is unclear but may be related to chronic (longterm) inflammation.

Nasopharyngeal polyps are benign, but they can grow to a size that causes obstruction of the nasopharynx. Removal by surgery is recommended if this occurs. If the entire polyp and stalk are not completely removed, regrowth is common.

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