Bovine Sinusitis Secondary to Dehorning – NAVLE Study Guide

Overview and Clinical Importance

Frontal sinusitis secondary to dehorning is the most common sequela of dehorning procedures in cattle when the frontal sinus is exposed following horn removal. This condition represents a significant clinical challenge in bovine practice and is a commonly tested topic on the NAVLE examination. Approximately 2% of surgically dehorned cattle develop sinusitis, making understanding of prevention, recognition, and treatment essential for veterinary practitioners.

The condition can present acutely within days of dehorning when the wound is still open, or it may develop months to years later after the dehorning site has healed. The chronicity and potential for life-threatening complications, including CNS extension, make early recognition and appropriate treatment critical for successful outcomes.

Relevant Anatomy

Horn and Frontal Sinus Development

Understanding the developmental anatomy of the bovine horn and frontal sinus is essential for comprehending why dehorning can lead to sinusitis. The horn bud develops during the first 2 months of life and consists of keratin produced at the corium, covering an underlying bony cornual process of the frontal bone.