Case Of the Month

Acute Splenic Torsion In An 8-Year-Old MN Shepherd Mix Canine: Our Case of the Month April 2017

The patient was presented on emergency from his RDVM. Thoracic radiographs were unremarkable. 2-view abdominal radiographs showed a cranial abdominal mass. CBC: HCT 32%, Anemia, elevated WBC 29.58, Mono 59, Neut 22.44, PCV/TP 36%/8.2 upon presentation. A double cavity ultrasound was performed.

DX

Acute splenic torsion with regional peritonitis.

Outcome

Immediate exploratory surgery was recommended. Underlying neoplasia is possible, yet unlikely. A splenectomy was performed. No contraindication to anesthetic procedure based on echocardiogram of normal volume, function and lack of right auricular masses or pericardial effusion.

Image Interpretation

The spleen in this patient revealed severe enlargement and reactive mesentery. Irregular contour was noted as well as micronodular changes that extended throughout the abdomen. This is strongly consistent with splenic torsion and appeared to be isolated to the spleen. A slight amount of free fluid was noted in the caudal abdomen adjacent to the bladder. Reactive mesentery was noted throughout the mid-abdomen. The liver was slightly swollen, yet not obviously enlarged in the pathological process. Normal echocardiogram with trivial mitral insufficiency.