Imaging diagnosis: biliopleural fistula in a dog.
A 3-year-old intact male Brittany Spaniel was admitted for thoracic gunshot wounds. Despite continued supportive care, the dog's condition deteriorated. Thoracic/abdominal ultrasound revealed a biliopleural fistula. Following fistula repair, the dog made a complete recovery. This case represented a diagnostic challenge because of the uncommon clinical presentation of a severe bile pleuritis in the absence of significant bile peritonitis. Biliopleural fistula is a rare condition but should be considered as a differential diagnosis in trauma patients with pleural effusion, especially those with penetrating thoracic injuries. Ultrasonography can be used to diagnose this disorder preoperatively.
Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA.
Kechia M
KM
Davis
Kathy A
KA
Spaulding
D000818:Animals; D001658:Biliary Fistula / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000662:veterinary*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery; D004285:Dogs / Q000293:injuries*; D005704:Gallbladder / Q000293:injuries; D055370:Lung Injury; D008297:Male; D010996:Pleural Effusion / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000662:veterinary; D011859:Radiography; D016156:Respiratory Tract Fistula / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000662:veterinary*; D014463:Ultrasonography; D014948:Wounds, Gunshot / Q000150:complications / Q000662:veterinary*