Case Study

Splenic mass in an 11 year old FS Mastiff

An 11-year-old spayed female Mastiff dog with a history of PU/PD for several months was presented for evaluation of a palpable abdominal mass. Urinalysis was normal and serum biochemistry showed mildly elevated ALP activity.

Sonographic Differential Diagnosis

Given the splenic mass concurrent right auricular mass is likely, just not overtly visible with the current views. The abdomen does not reveal any overt metastatic lesions except for the micronodular changes in the liver.

Image Interpretation

The spleen contained a heterogenous, mixed hypoechoic complex mass that measured 8.0 cm. This appeared isolated. The liver presented a passive congestion pattern with dilated hepatic veins. Minor, heterogenous hepatic changes were noted. The gallbladder contained a calculus that measured approximately 4.0 cm. The vena cava measured 1.5:1 ratio over the aorta. A mild amount of free fluid was noted in the caudal abdomen. The cardiac presentation presented severe pericardial effusion. Pleural effusion was noted throughout the caudal thorax. The heart appeared to have arrhythmogenic activity. Irregular right auricular rhythm was noted compared to the left atrial rhythm. Irregular right auricle was noted.

DX

Splenic mass, pleural and pericardial effusion.

Outcome

None

Comments

EKG is recommended.

Clinical Differential Diagnosis

Abdominal mass: neoplasia, granuloma, abscess or cyst in any of the following organs – spleen, liver, pancreas, mesentery, lymph node, kidney; Splenic torsion; Hydronephrosis.

Sampling

Pericardiocentesis is recommended from a palliative perspective. Abdominal exploratory surgery with splenectomy could be performed. However, given the concurrence of pericardial effusion along with the splenic mass metastatic disease is suspected.