Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging findings for the initial stage of equine temporohyoid osteoarthropathy in a thoroughbred foal

Abstract

Temporohyoid osteoarthropathy (THO) is characterized by progressive osseous proliferation of the stylohyoid and petrous temporal bones. Generally, diagnosis is confirmed by guttural pouch endoscopy and skull radiography. In the present case, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed in a 6-month-old Thoroughbred foal showing signs of head tilt and unilateral ear droop, consistent with the presence of a vestibular disease and unilateral facial paralysis. CT revealed bony fusion and proliferation of the right temporohyoid joint, while MRI revealed that otitis media was responsible for THO. In conclusion, this report suggests that CT and MRI provide a more concrete diagnosis and better understandings of the mechanism of THO etiology.