Diagnostic imaging of isolated splenic torsion in two dogs

Choi, Jihye; Kim, Hyunwook; Kim, Jinkyung; Jang, Jaeyoung; Kim, Junyoung; Yoon, Junghee

Korean Journal of Veterinary Research 2007;47(3):349-356.

Jihye Choi¹, Hyunwook Kim¹, Jinkyung Kim¹, Jaeyoung Jang¹, Junyoung Kim², Junghee Yoon²

¹Haemaru Referral Animal Hospital
²College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 Program for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University

개 비장염전의 진단영상 2례

최지혜¹, 김현욱¹, 김진경¹, 장재영¹, 김준영², 윤정희²

¹해마루 이차진료동물병원
²서울대학교 수의과대학 BK21 수의과학연구인력양성사업단

Abstract

Isolated splenic torsion is a rare disease, which is usually produced in deep-chest large breed dogs. A five-year old Pitbull terrier and a four-year old Yorkshire terrier were diagnosed as isolated splenic torsion with chronic form. Leukocytosis, anemia and elevated hepatic enzyme level were found in blood test and a large amount of ascites was observed. Abdominal radiography revealed splenomegaly and ascites and ultrasonography showed diffuse hypoechoic change of spleen in case 1 and hyperechoic change of spleen with focal hypoechoic regions in case 2, thromboembolism of splenic vein and abnormal direction of spleen. To identify the underlying disease of isolated splenic torsion, the histopathologic examination of excised spleen is essential and splenic neoplasia was found in case 2. Chronic isolated splenic torsion shows nonspecific clinical signs and laboratory results. Through diagnostic procedure, particularly ultrasonography, prompt diagnosis may be achieved and improve the prognosis of the patient.

Key Words: dog, histopathology, splenic torsion, splenomegaly, ultrasonography