Abstract

Feline inflammatory aural polyps are abnormal growths that can occur in the ear canals of cats, particularly in the middle ear. These polyps are frequently linked to persistent inflammation and can result in a range of ear-related complicated pathologies. The etiology is multifactorial. The purpose of the research was to study the cytology of an inflammatory polyp in a cat and to study the role of neutrophils and their mechanisms on the formation of extracellular protective traps by neutrophils (NETs). A 4-year-old, female spayed, Scottish fold cat, weighing 3.5 kg sent to a veterinary clinic (Mirra-Vet, Kyiv, Ukraine). Clinical, otoscopic methods, and laboratory methods of cytological diagnostics were used for the research. At the onset of the clinical investigation, exudate discharge from the ear and a painful response were observed. Upon detailed otoscopy, a polyp in the ear canal was diagnosed. An increase in the number of leukocytes (23.2×109/L), their absolute content, and an increase in the percentage of neutrophils (48.2 ) in the leukogram. Assessing the capacity of neutrophils to generate NETs (Neutrophil Extracellular Traps) was determined after samples were collected using a cytologic brush. Cytological analysis of samples from the inter-tragic incisure area highlighted a significant presence of neutrophils, forming extracellular protective traps. The results revealed free NETs in separate areas of the slides. The findings indicated the formation of cooperative groups among neutrophils, other phagocytes, and epithelial cells, along with slender nuclear streaks. During the treatment (Otoflox, 2 drops per ear), the inflammatory reaction disappears, polyp size decreases, exudative reactions decrease, and neutrophil activity decreases. After 3 days of treatment, the animal's condition improved. The ear was clean without sulfur and lesions. The complete treatment course spanned 7 days. During the treatment, the inflammatory reaction disappeared, polyp size decreased, exudative reactions decreased, and neutrophil activity decreased. Experimental studies have shown that during the inflammatory reaction in the ear, protective mechanisms of local immune defense are activated. Activated neutrophils perform their function through phagocytosis and the formation of NETs. These studies contribute to supplementing the data on the immunopathological mechanisms of feline inflammatory polyps. © The Author(s) 2024. All Rights Reserved.