Case Study

Dilated cardiomyopathy in a 7 year old MN DSH cat

A 7-year-old MN DSH with history of treatment with digoxin and a gallop rhythm was presented for occasional labored breathing. Abnormalities on physical examination were tachycardia (heart rate 210 bpm) and a gallop rhythm. Survey thoracic radiographs showed cardiomegaly and moderate pulmonary edema. CBC and blood chemistry were both within normal limits.

DX

Dilated cardiomyopathy

Sonographic Differential Diagnosis

These images are most consistent with dilated cardiomyopathy.

Image Interpretation

The cardiac presentation in this patient presented bilateral atrial enlargement and thinning of the ventricular septal and free wall. There was left ventricular overload. Hypocontractility was considered severe. No visible arrhythmia was noted during the exam. The EPSS (E-point septal separation) was increased at 0.6 cm. The right ventricle presented dilation. No free fluid was noted. However, minor shower curtain pattern was noted in the lung field. Tricuspid insufficiency velocity 2.1 m/sec. Mitral insufficiency velocity 2.5 m/sec.

Outcome

Ace inhibitor therapy, furosemide, taurine supplementation and pimobendan (off label use) was considered. Recheck echocardiogram in 2-3 weeks was also advised. The patient was treated with enalapril and furosemide.