Computed tomographic evaluation of the nasal septum deviation in clinically normal dogs

This study was performed to determine a comprehensive anatomic variation and deviation of the nasal septum in clinically normal dogs by use of computed tomography (CT). The nasal septum was evaluated in 36 shih-tzu dogs and 16 beagle dogs. A degree of a septal deviation was evaluated by measuring a maximum angle and a distance of the septal deviation. The angle and distance of the septal deviation were significantly higher in shih-tzu dogs than in beagle dogs. There was no significant relationship between body weight and age and all measurements (angle and distance) in both breed dogs. Results of this study suggest that nasal septum deviation and its defect are observed on CT images of clinically normal dogs, especially in shih-tzu dogs.