Feline Heart failure

Adrien-Maxence Hespel

Publication Date: 2015-03-16

Details

Service Radiology

Modality: Radiographs

Species: Feline

Area: Thorax

History

10 yo MN DSH - acute onset of respiratory distress

Question

1. What would be the most appropriate treatment for this patient based on radiographic examination ?

   a	Corticosteroid :-(
   b	Parasiticide :-(
   c	Diuretics :-D
   d	Antibiotics :-(

Findings

Three view thoracic radiographs are available for interpretation.

The cardiac silhouette is moderately to markedly elongated on the lateral projections and markedly enlarged on the ventrodorsal projection with a bulge in the region of the left atrium. The cranial lobar vessels are enlarged on the right lateral projection with the veins being slightly larger than the corresponding arteries. A heavy interstitial to patchy alveolar pattern is present primarily in the ventral aspect of the right caudal lung lob, though this also extends to the perihilar region and is seen in the left caudal lung lobe. A small amount of pleural effusion is present, noted by multiple pleural fissure lines. The visible portion of the abdomen is within normal limits.

Impression: Marked enlargement of the cardiac silhouette, likely due to a cardiomyopathy. Enlarged pulmonary veins, mild pleural effusion, and alveolar pattern as described, most consistent with left sided congestive heart failure. Consider echocardiogram for further evaluation of the heart and repeat thoracic radiographs to monitor for resolution of the pulmonary changes.

Diagnosis

Feline heart failure

Notes

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