Nasal and Paranasal Sinus Chondrosarcoma in Cats

Nasal and paranasal sinus chondrosarcoma are slow growing, progressive, invasive tumors of the nose, nasal cavity and surrounding communicating recesses.

As with most tumors, the cause is unknown. These tumors are seen more commonly in dogs than cats and are seen in all ages; however, they are most common in middle aged pets. Chondrosarcoma tends to develop at a younger age than other nasal tumors. There are no breed predilections.

What to Watch For

Nasal discharge

Epistaxis (bleeding from the nose)

Epiphora (tearing from the eyes)

Sneezing

Halitosis (bad breath)

Anorexia

Facial deformity

Exophthalmia (bulging eye)

Seizures (secondary to aggressive tumors invading the brain)

Diagnosis of Chondrosarcoma in Cats

Complete blood cell count (CBC)

Biochemical profile

Urinalysis

Chest X-rays

Skull/nasal radiographs

Nasal bacterial culture

Computed tomography imaging (CT scan) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Rhinoscopy (scoping the nasal cavity) and biopsy

Rhinotomy (cutting into the nasal cavity) and biopsy

Biopsy is necessary for a definitive diagnosis

Treatment of Chondrosarcoma in Cats

Surgery in combination with radiation therapy

Radiation therapy

Chemotherapy

Antibiotic therapy may be helpful in controlling secondary infection

Anti-inflammatory drugs may help as temporary symptomatic therapy if more aggressive treatment is not pursued

Home Care and Prevention

Administer all medication and dietary recommendations as directed by your veterinarian. Follow up as directed.

If your cat’s condition does not improve or becomes worse, seek veterinary attention at once. Overall, nasal and paranasal sinus chondrosarcomas are very aggressive and carry a guarded prognosis.

There is no preventative care for chondrosarcoma.