Galbladder mucocele in a 9yr old, MN Beagle

Case Study

Galbladder mucocele in a 9yr old, MN Beagle

A 9-year-old MN Beagle was presented for evaluation of acute onset vomiting and anorexia.  Physical examination and urinalysis were unremarkable. Abnormalities on CBC and serum biochemistry were leukocytosis, and elevated liver enzyme activity (ALT 183, ALP 1516, GGT 23).

A 9-year-old MN Beagle was presented for evaluation of acute onset vomiting and anorexia.  Physical examination and urinalysis were unremarkable. Abnormalities on CBC and serum biochemistry were leukocytosis, and elevated liver enzyme activity (ALT 183, ALP 1516, GGT 23).

Sonographic Differential Diagnosis

Inflamed gallbladder mucocele. Potential for bile peritonitis.
Chronic cystitis bladder pattern.
Bilateral adrenal gland hypertrophy, potential emerging Cushing’s disease.

Image Interpretation

The liver images from right and left intercostal as well as subcostal views revealed subjectively normal liversize, contour, and structure. Parenchymal echogenicity was naturally coarse and hypoechoic to the spleen. Vascular and biliary tracts were of normal volume and no evidence of congestion was noted. The gallbladder presented striating bile and mucocele formation with pericapsular inflammatory pattern. There were minor areas of edema. 

The adrenal glands appeared slightly prominent, mildly heterogenic and slightly nodular. No evidence of capsular expansion or invasion into the phrenic veins were noted. No overt suspicion of neoplasia was noted.  This is considered likely an age related change or hyperplasia associated with stress or adrenal endocrinopathy with the minimal potential of emerging neoplastic event.  The left adrenal gland measured 2.95 x 1.0 cm. The right adrenal gland measured 3.26 x 1.0 cm.

The urinary bladder presented apical polypoid changes that appear to be resectable with resection of the cranial 1/3 of the bladder. This is most consistent with chronic cystitis with potential underlying transitional cell carcinoma. Cytospin of the urine is recommended to assess for pathological cells.

DX

Inflamed gallbladder mucocele

Outcome

Immediate cholecystectomy is recommended. The free fluid adjacent to the gallbladder would suggest perforation and regional peritonitis. Plasma transfusion and immediate cholecystectomy is recommended. Removal of the apical third of the urinary bladder with appropriate biopsies would be ideal given the convenience of the procedure.

Clinical Differential Diagnosis

Liver – acute hepatitis (viral, bacterial, toxins, trauma), neoplasia, granulomatous disease, abscessation
Gall bladder – cholecystitis, mucocele, obstructive (lith, neoplasia, duodenal/pancreatic disease)
Pancreas – pancreatitis, neoplasia

Patient Information

Patient Name : Oliver Pareis
Gender : Male, Neutered
Species : Canine
Type of Imaging : Ultrasound
Status : Complete
Liz Wuz Here : Yes

Clinical Signs

  • Anorexia
  • Vomiting

Images

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Blood Chemistry

  • ALT (SGPT), High
  • GGT High

CBC

  • WBC, High

Clinical Signs

  • Anorexia
  • Vomiting
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