Case Study

Jejunal foreign body in a 9 year old MN DSH cat

A 9-year-old MN DSH cat was presented for lethargy, vomiting, and anorexia. CBC was within normal limits but serum chemistry showed mild decrease in phosphorus and mildly elevated GGT activity. Survey abdominal radiographs were abnormal. Barium study possible mega-esophagus and normal movement through the small intestine.

A 9-year-old MN DSH cat was presented for lethargy, vomiting, and anorexia. CBC was within normal limits but serum chemistry showed mild decrease in phosphorus and mildly elevated GGT activity. Survey abdominal radiographs were abnormal. Barium study possible mega-esophagus and normal movement through the small intestine.

Sonographic Differential Diagnosis

Jejunal obstruction. Likely underlying inflammatory bowel disease and/or intestinal stricture.

Image Interpretation

Gastric and upper small intestinal dilation was noted with an obstructing, shadowing material in the jejunum. This is consistent with hairball or other foreign matter in the caudal abdomen. Some thickening of the intestine was noted. A minor amount of ascites was noted.

DX

Jejunal foreign body

Outcome

Upon re-evaluation and suture removal the owner reported that the pet was doing well.

Comments

An enterotomy was performed and a pin cushion was removed from the mid jejunum. No loss of bowel vitality was observed by the surgeon. Postoperatively the cat did well and was discharged with pain medications, antibiotics, and an antacid.

Clinical Differential Diagnosis

Pancreatic pathology (neoplasia, pancreatitis – acute/chronic); GI pathology (neoplasia, partial obstruction, IBD, Helicobacter gastritis); Esophagus – dilation, reflux esophagitis.