Canine imaging self-assessment

Abstract

Companion Animal Vol 17 May 2012 23 © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd Toto, a four-year-old neutered male Pug, was presented at our emergency clinic with acute onset of lethargy, anorexia, tachypnoea and dyspnoea. The client noted the changes after coming back from a walk on the beach with Toto. Clinical examination revealed respiratory distress, pale mucous membranes and pronounced weakness. Capillary refill time was mildly increased (>2 seconds) and the dog was febrile (rectal temperature of 39.8oC). On thoracic auscultation there were dull heart and lung sounds in the left cranial thorax while in the left caudal thorax mild wheezing and crackles were noted. Complete blood count revealed mature neutrophilia and serum biochemical analysis was unremarkable. QUESTIONS 1. Describe the abnormalities detected on the radiographs in Figs. 1a and 1b. 2. Name the most likely differential diagnosis and additional possible diagnoses. 3. Which is the examination of choice for arriving at a definite diagnosis and what are the classical findings in such a condition? 4. Name additional diagnostic tools that could assist the clinician to reach a diagnosis. Avi Avner BSc BVSc DVDI MRCVS KNOWLEDGE FARM VETERINARY SPECIALIST REFERRAL CENTRE, BEIT BERL CAMPS, ISRAEL