Imaging diagnosis--aortic thromboembolism associated with spirocercosis in a dog.
An 8-year-old neutered female Rhodesian Ridgeback developed acute, nonneurological right pelvic limb lameness. Femoral pulsation was poor, and oscillometric blood pressure measurements between the two pelvic limbs differed markedly. A caudal aortic right external iliac embolus was detected sonographically. Radiographically, there was a caudal esophageal mass and thoracic vertebral spondylitis typical of spirocercosis. Using CT-angiography, a caudal thoracic aortic aneurysm with a mural thrombus was detected. The dog recovered following heparin and aspirin therapy but signs recurred 7 months later. Subsequently, the patient improved on treatment and remains asymptomatic. This report illustrates the value of CT-angiography in detecting aortic thrombosis in dogs with spirocercosis.
Kirberger
Robert M
RM
Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110, Republic of South Africa. Robert.kirberger@up.ac.za
Zambelli
Anthony
A
D000818:Animals; D001013:Aorta, Thoracic; D001014:Aortic Aneurysm / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000662:veterinary*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology; D004285:Dogs; D005260:Female; D017205:Spirurida Infections / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000662:veterinary*; D013802:Thelazioidea; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000662:veterinary