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.

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.

DX

Splenic hematoma

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