Congenital diaphragmatic hernia in a crossbred piglet: A case report

Abstract

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a congenital defect affecting the diaphragm resulting in herniation of organs from abdominal cavity into thoracic cavity. It is a life-threatening condition and a major cause of death due to two complications: pulmonary hypoplasia and pulmonary hypertension. A stillborn male crossbred piglet on necropsy revealed hydrothorax and hydro-peritoneum. Thoracic cavity showed protrusion of parts of the small intestine into the cavity through the right side of the diaphragm, no hernial sac was detected and lungs were under-developed. Liver showed severe congestion and marked enlargement with abnormal lobulation. Cortical surface of both kidneys were rough and granular. Parallely placed double spleen with multiple hemorrhagic areas was noticed. Microscopic examination of kidney showed diffused cortical mononuclear cell infiltration with mild engorgement of medullary capillaries. In lungs, alveolar capillaries were moderately engorged with prominent interlobular septa and severe atelectasis. In liver, multifocal areas of hemorrhages and hydropic degeneration of hepatocytes was noticed. The case was diagnosed as congenital diaphragmatic hernia.