Case Study

Thoracic mass in a 9 year old FS Boxer

A 9-year-old FS Boxer dog was presented for evaluation of of weight loss and decreased appetite. Physical Exam was normal. Urinalysis showed normal SG, proteinuria, and hematuria. The only abnormality on serum biochemistry was low-normal albumin (2.6). Survey thoracic radiographs showed a globoid-appearing heart and generalized loss of detail within the thorax.

Sonographic Differential Diagnosis

Thoracic mass. Differentials include possibly thymoma, ectopic thyroid carcinoma or lymphoma. Hepatic vein dilation was noted. This is indicative of vena caval impingement and obstruction

Image Interpretation

The thorax in this patient was occupied by a conglomerately complex and partially cystic mass. This occupied most of the thorax, but mainly the left thorax. This is likely of lymph node origin. The heart itself was structurally unremarkable with normal volume and contractility, yet was displaced to the right.

Outcome

CT evaluation would be ideal. Surgical intervention can be considered. This may be a debulking effort depending on the underlying cytology results. No peripheral air entrapment is noted. Therefore, even though this could be lung in origin, it cannot be confirmed it without the presence of air within the periphery of the tumor.