Reverse Sneezing in Dogs: Observational Study in 30 Cases

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Reverse sneezing (RS) is a reflex triggered by nasopharyngeal irritation, which manifests as a paroxysm of loud inspiratory noise accompanied by a labored respiratory effort. It constitutes a common cause of consultation, as pet owners often worry and find these episodes to be stressful situations. However, no studies about the epidemiology, natural history, underlying disorders, or clinical response to treatment have been reported. The availability of specific data about all the mentioned aspects could contribute to a better definition of the importance of this clinical sign, in order to define the most appropriate diagnostic protocol, as well as the prognosis and the expected evolution. Signalment, clinical features, final diagnosis, and evolution were retrospectively studied in a cohort of 30 dogs with RS. Small and toy breeds may be predisposed to RS, but no predilection for sex, neuter status, or age exists. Many dogs continue to present RS despite treatment. Although some dogs present infrequent episodes of RS, being otherwise normal, RS should be considered a marker of potential irritation of the nasopharyngeal mucosa and should be sufficiently investigated. ABSTRACT: Reverse sneezing (RS) is a frequent reason for veterinary consultation, but there is scarce clinical information. The aim of this study was to describe clinical characteristics in a cohort of 30 dogs with RS. Signalment, clinical features, results of diagnostic tests, final diagnosis, and evolution were retrospectively evaluated. Sex and neuter status were equally distributed into diagnosis categories. A significantly higher representation of toys (<5 kg, 50%) and small-sized dogs (5–15 kg, 27%), in comparison to medium (15–30 kg, 17%) and large-sized dogs (>30 kg, 7%), was found. RS was the main owner concern in many of the cases (67%). Many cases presented chronic RS (60%, > 3 months), with more than one episode a week (60%). Most cases had an additional clinical respiratory sign (63%) and an unremarkable physical examination (63%). Inflammatory airway disorders were present in 57% of the cases, followed by anatomical–functional disorders (27%), and nasal/nasopharyngeal foreign bodies (10%). Two dogs (7%) remained as open diagnoses. Episodes of RS were persistent despite the treatment in 61% of the dogs with follow-up. Although some dogs manifest infrequent episodes of RS, being otherwise normal, RS should be considered a marker of potential irritation of the nasopharyngeal mucosa and should always be sufficiently investigated.