Case Study

Splenic hematoma in a 7 year old FS Australian Shepherd

A 7-year-old FS Australian Shepherd was presented for a mastectomy. A palpable abdominal mass was found during preoperative examination. CBC and blood chemistry were within normal limits but T4 was suggestive of hypothyroidism. Abdominal radiographs showed the presence of a possible splenic mass.

DX

Splenic hematoma

Sonographic Differential Diagnosis

Solitary mildly complex splenic mass, which could be benign (hematoma, degenerative process) or malignant (HSA, round cell neoplasia).

Image Interpretation

The spleen presented a 9 cm, mixed, hypoechoic and hyperechoic mass with other minor splenic nodules. No evidence of rupture was noted.

Outcome

Three-view thoracic radiographs followed by a splenectomy were recommended. The dog underwent a splenectomy, mammary gland tumor removal with biopsies, and Penrose drain placement. The patient recovered without event and was treated post-operatively with Baytril and Buprenex. At drain removal appointment, the owner reported the patient was doing very well at home.

Clinical Differential Diagnosis

Palpable abdominal mass – metastatic mammary neoplasia (origin: spleen, liver, kidney, mesenteric lymph nodes), neoplasia, granuloma, abscess (origin: spleen, liver, kidney).

Sampling

Multiple surgical biopsies of the spleen revealed hematoma. There was no evidence of neoplasia.

Video

Patient Information

Patient Name : Nellie G

Gender : Female, Spayed

Species : Canine

Type of Imaging : Ultrasound

Status : Complete

Liz Wuz Here : Yes

Code : 08_00044

Clinical Signs

Palpable Mass

History

Neoplasia

Images

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Blood Chemistry

Hypothyroidism

Clinical Signs

Palpable Mass