Hydrops fetalis caused by a complex congenital heart defect with concurrent hypoplasia of pulmonary blood vessels and lungs visualized by micro-CT in a French Bulldog.

BACKGROUND: Hydrops fetalis (HF) is fluid accumulation in fetus body cavities and subcutaneous tissue. The condition has been described in various farm and companion animal species, including dogs. Most of cases result from a heart defect. Exact nature of this defect is rarely clarified. CASE PRESENTATION: A newborn, male French bulldog puppy with severe HF underwent a full anatomopathological examination to diagnose the primary cause of HF. Based on the anatomopathological examination, fetal ultrasound, and micro-computed tomography, transposition of the great arteries with hypoplasia of the ascending aorta, aortic arch interruption, ostium secundum atrial septal defect, severe tricuspid valve dysplasia, as well as hypoplasia of pulmonary vessels and lungs were diagnosed. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first report of HF caused by severe, complex congenital heart defects with concurrent pulmonary vessel and lung hypoplasia.

Assessment of tumor hypoxia in spontaneous canine tumors after treatment with OMX, a novel H-NOX oxygen carrier, with [18F]FMISO PET/CT.

BACKGROUND: Hypoxia is a detrimental factor in solid tumors, leading to aggressiveness and therapy resistance. OMX, a tunable oxygen carrier from the heme nitric oxide/oxygen-binding (H-NOX) protein family, has the potential to reduce tumor hypoxia. [18F]Fluoromisonidazole ([18F]FMISO) positron emission tomography (PET) is the most widely used and investigated method for non-invasive imaging of tumor hypoxia. In this study, we used [18F]FMISO PET/CT (computed tomography) to assess the effect of OMX on tumor hypoxia in spontaneous canine tumors. RESULTS: Thirteen canine patients with various tumors (n = 14) were randomly divided into blocks of two, with the treatment groups alternating between receiving intratumoral (IT) OMX injection (OMX IT group) and intravenous (IV) OMX injection (OMX IV group). Tumors were regarded as hypoxic if maximum tumor-to-muscle ratio (TMRmax) was greater than 1.4. In addition, hypoxic volume (HV) was defined as the region with tumor-to-muscle ratio greater than 1.4 on [18F]FMISO PET images. Hypoxia was detected in 6/7 tumors in the OMX IT group and 5/7 tumors in the OMX IV injection group. Although there was no significant difference in baseline hypoxia between the OMX IT and IV groups, the two groups showed different responses to OMX. In the OMX IV group, hypoxic tumors (n = 5) exhibited significant reductions in tumor hypoxia, as indicated by decreased TMRmax and HV in [18F]FMISO PET imaging after treatment. In contrast, hypoxic tumors in the OMX IT group (n = 6) displayed a significant increase in [18F]FMISO uptake and variable changes in TMRmax and HV. CONCLUSIONS: [18F]FMISO PET/CT imaging presents a promising non-invasive procedure for monitoring tumor hypoxia and assessing the efficacy of hypoxia-modulating therapies in canine patients. OMX has shown promising outcomes in reducing tumor hypoxia, especially when administered intravenously, as evident from reductions in both TMRmax and HV in [18F]FMISO PET imaging.

Quantitative evaluation of middle ear radiopacity in French bulldogs using X-ray imaging.

Background: Radiographic examination of the middle ear in French bulldogs can be challenging due to their small ear cavity and thick walls. Quantifying opacity on radiographic images is required to determine normal or abnormal results. Aim: To quantify the radiographic opacity of the middle ear in French bulldogs and create a threshold for objective diagnosis. Methods: A study was conducted on 32 French Bulldogs using radiographic images. Significant difference tests were performed on the ears of patients with unilateral and bilateral middle ear filling on computed tomography. A threshold was established for detecting left-right asymmetry in the same individuals. In addition, comparisons were made between the filling and nonfilling middle ear groups to establish a threshold of pixel values that could determine single middle ear filling and nonfilling for different patient images. Results: Significant differences were observed in the left-right difference in max, left-right difference in max-ave, and left-right ratio of max-ave between unilateral and bilateral filling groups. The max-ave left-right ratio had the highest area under the curve value with a cutoff of 1.077% and 92.3% sensitivity. The item that showed a significant difference between middle ear groups with and without filling was corrected for nasopharyngeal pixel values with a cutoff of 1.028% and 85% sensitivity. Conclusion: Pixel value ratios in the middle ear region can detect asymmetries in ear densities. The max value in the region compared to the same image's nasopharyngeal region can determine the filling. Combining individual ear evaluations and symmetry improves accuracy.

Diagnostic value of ultrasonography in identifying unilateral ovarian luteoma in a dog.

Background: Diagnosing ovarian tumors in dogs can be challenging since the clinical symptoms are often generic. The present case report underscores a rare case in which a suspected unilateral ovarian tumor in a dog was initially identified using ultrasonography and subsequently confirmed to be a luteoma through postoperative histopathology. Case Description: An 8-year and 6-month-old female Maltese dog presented with a 10-day history of vulvovaginal bleeding, hematuria, and decreased appetite. Physical examination revealed only vaginal bleeding, with no other abnormalities. Laboratory examinations showed no abnormalities, while abdominal radiography revealed the presence of cystic calculi as the sole abnormality. Abdominal ultrasound revealed an enlarged right ovary with regular contour and echogenicity, featuring unusual cystic components surrounding the right ovarian parenchyma. Furthermore, irregular thickening with multiple cystic lesions was observed in the endometrial wall of the bilateral uterine horns, indicative of cystic endometrial hyperplasia. Ultrasonographic findings suggested unilateral right ovarian disease. During ovariohysterectomy, the right ovary was slightly larger than the left ovary and adhered to the surrounding mesenteric fat layer and right pancreatic parenchyma. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of luteoma in the right ovary. Three days after surgery, the patient's clinical signs exhibited complete improvement, with the return of normal appetite. Conclusion: This case report highlights a rare diagnosis of unilateral ovarian luteoma based on mild ultrasonographic abnormalities, which was ultimately confirmed on histopathological examination.

Findings of an Extraluminal Leiomyosarcoma of the Urinary Bladder in a Dog.

A 9 yr old male miniature poodle presented with acute diarrhea, vomiting, and a distended abdomen. A large and firm mass was palpated in the caudal abdomen. Radiography showed a large soft-tissue mass in the mid ventral abdomen. The mass was mildly contrast-enhancing and in contact with the right cranial aspect of the bladder on computed tomography. The mass was heterogeneous with minimal blood flow on Doppler examination. Surgery confirmed its origin of the urinary bladder, and it was diagnosed leiomyosarcoma on pathology. This is the first report of extraluminal leiomyosarcoma of the bladder wall with imaging characteristics using various modalities.

Clinical outcomes of 20 brachycephalic dogs with thoracolumbar spinal deformities causing neurological signs treated with spinal stabilization using 3D-printed patient-specific drill guides.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical outcomes for pugs and French bulldogs with congenital vertebral malformations, undergoing thoracolumbar spinal stabilization surgery using 3D-printed patient-specific drill guides. To evaluate the accuracy of pedicle screw placement in this group of dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective descriptive study. ANIMALS: Twenty dogs (12 pugs and eight French bulldogs). METHODS: Medical records searched between August 2018 and March 2021 for pugs and French bulldogs diagnosed with congenital vertebral abnormalities via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan and computed tomography (CT) scan causing T3-L3 myelopathy signs that underwent spinal stabilization surgery using 3D-printed patient-specific drill guides followed by a postoperative CT scan. The short-term outcome was based on the neurological grade (modified Frankel score-MFS) on the day after surgery, day of discharge, and at the follow-up examination at 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. The mid-term outcome was obtained via an online questionnaire (or direct examination in one case). RESULTS: Twenty dogs met the inclusion criteria (19/20 grade 2 MFS, 1/20 grade 4 MFS). No complications were reported in the immediate postoperative period and optimal pedicle screw placement was obtained in 169/201 of screws. Twenty-four hours after surgery 16/20 dogs displayed an unchanged neurological grade. Short-term outcomes revealed a static (17/20) or improved (2/20) neurological grade. Ten owners participated in the online questionnaire. All patients were reported to be ambulatory; however, 7/10 dogs displayed abnormal gait. Neurological signs had remained static (6/10) or improved (3/10) in comparison with the dogs' preoperative status at a median of 883.5 days from the surgery. CONCLUSION: Dogs in this study had a favorable short-term outcome and mid-term outcome evaluation revealed a static/improved neurological status. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Thoracolumbar spinal stabilization surgery using 3D-printed patient-specific drill guides showed a favorable outcome in brachycephalic breeds affected by vertebral deformities.

Computed tomographic features of canine intracranial and jugular foraminal masses involving the combined glossopharyngeal, vagus, and accessory nerve roots.

A chronic cough, gag, or retch is a common presenting clinical complaint in dogs. Those refractory to conservative management frequently undergo further diagnostic tests to investigate the cause, including CT examination of their head, neck, and thorax for detailed morphological assessment of their respiratory and upper gastrointestinal tract. This case series describes five patients with CT characteristics consistent with an intracranial and jugular foraminal mass of the combined glossopharyngeal (IX), vagus (X), and accessory (XI) cranial nerves and secondary features consistent with their paresis. The consistent primary CT characteristics included an intracranial, extra-axial, cerebellomedullary angle, and jugular foraminal soft tissue attenuating, strongly enhancing mass (5/5). Secondary characteristics included smooth widening of the bony jugular foramen (5/5), mild hyperostosis of the petrous temporal bone (3/5), isolated severe atrophy of the ipsilateral sternocephalic, cleidocephalic, and trapezius muscles (5/5), atrophy of the ipsilateral thyroarytenoideus and cricoarytenoideus muscles of the vocal fold (5/5), and an ipsilateral "dropped" shoulder (4/5). Positional variation of the patient in CT under general anesthesia made the "dropped" shoulder of equivocal significance. The reported clinical signs and secondary CT features reflect a unilateral paresis of the combined cranial nerves (IX, X, and XI) and are consistent with jugular foramen syndrome/Vernet's syndrome reported in humans. The authors believe this condition is likely chronically underdiagnosed without CT examination, and this case series should enable earlier CT diagnosis in future cases.

Surgical management of urethral obstruction secondary to perineal liposarcoma in a dog: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Swelling of the perineal region in male dogs is most commonly caused by a perineal hernia. Clinical signs associated with perineal hernia are constipation, tenesmus or stranguria. This case report documents a rare cause of perineal swelling created by the growth of a malignant tumour leading to urethral obstruction and subsequent stranguria. CASE PRESENTATION: An 11-year-old neutered male German Shepherd was presented for swelling in the perineal region and stranguria for three days. Complete blood count and serum biochemistry were unremarkable. Ultrasound revealed a heterogeneous mass in the perineal region. Retrograde urethrography showed a severe narrowing of the urethra caudal to the pelvis. A fine-needle aspirate of the mass was highly suspicious for liposarcoma. Staging was performed by computed tomography (CT) of the thorax and abdomen. Total penile amputation in combination with pubic-ischial pelvic osteotomy, transposition of the remaining urethra through the inguinal canal, V-Y-plasty cranial to the prepuce and preputial urethrostomy were performed to remove the tumour. Histopathology confirmed a well-differentiated liposarcoma with complete histological margins. Six months after the surgery the dog was doing well and there were no signs indicating local tumour recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: Wide surgical excision is generally recommended for soft tissue sarcomas, however this is sometimes not feasible for large tumours. In the case reported here, tumour resection was achieved by a combination of several surgical techniques with a good clinical outcome.

Evaluation of the clinical usefulness of pancreatic alpha amylase as a novel biomarker in dogs with acute pancreatitis: a pilot study.

Pancreatic alpha amylase (P-AMY) is used as a biomarker of acute pancreatitis (AP) in human medicine. To our knowledge, there are no studies evaluating the usefulness of P-AMY in dogs with AP. In this study, we evaluated the diagnostic value of P-AMY, currently not verified in veterinary medicine. The AP group (n = 40) consisted of dogs with AP diagnosed using clinical signs and laboratory examinations, including abnormal canine pancreatic lipase (cPL) concentration, and compatible abdominal ultrasound examination at first presentation. Evaluation of the canine AP severity (CAPS) score was performed. The control group (n = 38) was composed of normal dogs without any abnormalities in clinical findings, blood exams or diagnostic imaging. The correlation of P-AMY with cPL was confirmed by Pearson's correlation analysis (r = 0.564, p < .001). The sensitivity and specificity for the most appropriate cut-off values of P-AMY were recorded similar to the values of DGGR. The dogs with AP and CAPS ≥11 had significantly higher serum P-AMY (p = .016) contrary to DGGR lipase and cPL. Furthermore, there was a significant difference in the median P-AMY dependent on the presence of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (p = .001). P-AMY showed similar level of diagnostic accuracy along with sensitivity and specificity compared to DGGR lipase. In addition, P-AMY showed a significant association with CAPS score, contrary to cPL and DGGR lipase. Along with other biomarkers associated with AP, P-AMY has the potential of usefulness as a supportive diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of AP in dogs.

Intracranial invasion of a mast cell tumour in a dog: A case report and review of the literature.

An 11-year-old, female-neutered beagle was presented with a growing soft tissue mass arising within the deep tissues of the left cranial cervical region. At presentation, facial asymmetry was evident along with palpable lymphadenomegaly. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a locally invasive cervical mass with intracranial invasion through focal osteolysis of the occipital bone. After antihistamine administration, cytology confirmed mast cell tumour (MCT) with metastasis to local lymph nodes and liver. The owner chose to pursue lomustine and prednisolone, which were dispensed, but, before home administration, prolonged seizures/status epilepticus occurred prompting euthanasia. Postmortem examination confirmed a high-grade MCT associated with, and infiltrating through, muscle, calvarium, dura mata, leptomeninges and the underlying brain. We present the clinical, imaging, and pathological findings of an unprecedented case of extracranial MCT tumour causing osteolysis of an imperforate flat bone (occipital bone) and intracranial invasion.

Volumetric quantification identifies some left atrial dilations undetected by left atrium:aorta ratio measurements: A prospective echocardiographic study in 155 Cavalier King Charles Spaniels with and without degenerative mitral valve disease.

INTRODUCTION: Degenerative mitral valve disease (DMVD) is the most common canine heart disease with a high predisposition in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (CKCSs). Mitral regurgitation related to DMVD can lead to left atrial (LA) dilation, which is associated with survival time. Left-atrial-to-aortic (LA:Ao) ratio assessed by two-dimensional echocardiography is commonly used to evaluate LA size. The objectives of this prospective observational study were therefore 1) to compare different echocardiographic methods (i.e., monoplane and biplane Simpson's methods of discs (SMOD) and area-length methods (ALM)) in evaluating LA volume (LAvol) in CKCSs, 2) to assess LA volumes according to DMVD severity and, 3) compare the ability of LAvol and LA:Ao ratio to identify LA enlargement in CKCSs with subclinical DMVD (i.e., American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) stage B). MATERIALS AND METHODS: 155 CKCSs, either healthy or affected by DMVD, were recruited. Variability and concordance between volumetric methods were evaluated. Values were analyzed according to 2019 ACVIM stages. RESULTS: All Lin's concordance correlation coefficients regarding intra- and inter-observer variability were considered as very good to excellent. Monoplane methods and ALM produced higher values of LAvol than biplane methods and SMOD, respectively. The upper limit of normal end-systolic LAvol/body weight (LASvol/BW) was defined as 0.90 mL/kg. Left atrial volumes significantly increased with ACVIM stages. Additionally, 37% of stage B1 CKCSs demonstrated LA enlargement using LASvol/BW assessment, with significantly lower LASvol/BW values in dogs with regurgitation fraction ≤30% than in others (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: In CKCSs, LAvol methods are not interchangeable. In ACVIM stage B CKCSs, LAvol quantification is more effective to detect LA enlargement than LA linear measurements.

Echocardiographic and pathologic identification of an aorto-left atrial fistula secondary to infective endocarditis in a canine patient.

A dog was presented for lameness, fever, and extreme lethargy. On physical exam, a new heart murmur, arrhythmia, and joint effusion were detected. These findings were not detected two months prior. A diagnostic work-up confirmed septic suppurative inflammation in multiple joints. Echocardiogram revealed aortic valvular endocarditis along with a communication, as a consequence of a fistula, that extended from just below the aortic sinotubular junction to the left atrial lumen. Due to a poor prognosis, humane euthanasia was elected. Necropsy and histopathology confirmed infective endocarditis of the aortic valve and an aorto-left atrial fistulous tract extending from the left coronary sinus of the aortic valve to the lumen of left atrium.

Cardiovascular images: pacemaker-lead fracture and excessive coiling in a dog.

A seven-year-old male castrated Labrador Retriever presented emergently due to concern for pacemaker malfunction five years after successful transvenous pacemaker implantation to treat partial atrial standstill. On presentation, the dog's pulse rate was 30-50 beats per minute. An electrocardiogram showed no spontaneous atrial activity or paced ventricular activity. Pacemaker interrogation revealed an increased impedance of 7557 ohms, indicating a lead malfunction. Thoracic radiographs confirmed the lead was fractured and had excessive coiling. The transvenous pacing system was turned off, left in place, and an epicardial pacing system was implanted the following day. The dog was discharged with no perioperative complications. The dog eventually required escalated medical therapy for progressive cardiac disease and was euthanized two years after implantation of the replacement pacemaker. This manuscript illustrates a complete lead fracture and excessive lead coiling, which has not previously been detailed in veterinary medicine.

Bleb characteristics assessed by ultrasound biomicroscopy correlate with intraocular pressure after Ahmed glaucoma valve surgery in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the characteristics of blebs formed after Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) surgery in dogs using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) and to analyze their correlation with postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP). ANIMALS: 16 eyes (13 dogs) were diagnosed with primary angle-closure glaucoma and were followed up after AGV surgery from June 2021 to September 2023. METHODS: In this prospective study, UBM examinations were performed to assess bleb characteristics, including bleb wall thickness and reflectivity. IOP at the time of UBM imaging and the duration from AGV surgery to UBM imaging were recorded. Histological examination of an enucleated eye removed due to uncontrolled IOP leading to blindness was also conducted. RESULTS: A significant correlation was observed between IOP and relative reflectivity (Pearson r = 0.60; P = .01), and a negative correlation was observed between bleb wall thickness and relative reflectivity (Pearson r = -0.72; P = .002). No significant correlation was observed between the duration from AGV surgery to UBM imaging and either bleb wall thickness or relative reflectivity, respectively. Histological examination of the enucleated eye revealed collagen-rich fibrous encapsulation of the bleb wall, including myofibroblasts that exhibited positive α-smooth muscle actin immunostaining. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In dogs that underwent AGV surgery, less dense, thick-walled blebs on UBM tended to maintain IOP within the normal range. However, denser, thinner-walled blebs showed IOP levels above the normal range despite the use of antiglaucoma medications. UBM is a useful tool for evaluating bleb characteristics and their influence on IOP regulation after AGV surgery in dogs.

Atypically located accessory splenic hemangiosarcoma in a Dog: Diagnostic value of triple-phase computed tomography.

A 10-year-old Cocker spaniel presented with lethargy. Triple-phase computed tomography was obtained with a contrast test bolus at the level of porta hepatis, which revealed a right lower abdominal mass. The mass was not connected to other abdominal organs; however, a linear structure was observed connecting the splenic hilum to the mass, which was suspected to be the feeding vessel. The arterial phase image was obtained again with a contrast bolus at the level of the celiac artery. A prominent contrast-enhanced feeding artery originating from the splenic artery to the mass was observed. Histopathology confirmed an accessory splenic hemangiosarcoma.

Cervical intervertebral disc disease in 307 small-breed dogs (2000-2021): Breed-characteristic features and disc-associated vertebral instability.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the breed-characteristic features of cervical intervertebral disc disease (C-IVDD) and associated vertebral instability in small-breed dogs and to present the concept of intervertebral disc degeneration and associated instability stage, method of diagnosis, treatment and outcomes. ANIMALS: In total, 307 client-owned dogs with C-IVDD treated with spinal cord decompression with or without vertebral stabilization (2000-2021). METHODS: Information on age, sex, affected sites, stabilized sites, diagnostic methods for vertebral instability and outcomes were retrieved. The patient's age, affected sites (cranial vs caudal discs), and frequency of vertebral stabilization were compared in six CD and five NCD breed. Multivariable analyses of the chondrodystrophic (CD) vs non-CD (NCD) groups, and vertebral stabilization (dogs stabilized vs dogs not stabilized) were performed. RESULTS: In total, 222 (72.3%) and 77 (25.1%) were CD and NCD breeds, respectively. Vertebral instabilities were diagnosed based on the survey radiographs with computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (n = 2), dynamic myelography (n = 29), intraoperative spinal manipulation (n = 11) or second surgery in dogs with persistent postoperative paraspinal pain (n = 3). Of these dogs, 295 (96.1%) recovered (median follow-up: 8.5 [range, 1-119] months). Significant differences in age, affected sites and frequency of stabilization were noted among the breeds. Older age and frequent vertebral stabilization were the associated factors for the NCD breed dogs. Male dogs, caudal discs affected (C5-T1) and the NCD breed dogs were risk factors for the dogs with vertebral stabilization. CONCLUSION: Vertebral stabilization is indicated for small-breed dogs with cervical disc-associated vertebral instability.

Uterine horn intussusception in immediate post-partum in a Pomeranian Spitz dog.

A 2-year-old Pomeranian-Spitz dog (5.8 kg) was admitted with symptoms of uterine prolapse and lethargy 1 day after whelping three puppies. The prolapsed uterus was corrected, but the next day, prolapse reoccurred. To fix the cervix to the abdominal wall, the dog underwent a surgery operation where intussusception in the left horn of the uterus was found. Ovariohysterectomy was performed as the treatment of choice. The diagnosis of intussusception is challenging, and exploratory laparotomy is the reliable diagnostic approach. Although uterine intussusception is rare, it should be one of the important considerations in dogs within the post-partum period.

Surgical treatment and outcome of haematomyelia with a traumatic cause in a dog and a cat.

Two surgically treated haematomyelia cases were documented. One dog and one cat were presented for acute progressive paraplegia following a fall from height incident. Neurological examinations suggested a L4-S3 myelopathy in both cases. Radiography and magnetic resonance imaging in both cases revealed no fracture or subluxation of the spine, but well-defined intramedullary mass lesions in lower lumbar regions compatible with haemorrhage and haematoma formation. Exploratory surgeries were performed over the lesions. Dark-red friable masses were removed via myelotomy. Histopathological examinations revealed organizing haematomas at the acute to subacute stage. Postoperatively, both cases improved and regained ambulation. The dog walked normally but remained urinary and faecal incontinent 9 months after the surgery. The cat was continent and ambulatory with a paraparetic gait 5 months after the surgery. In both cases, the outcomes and the patients' quality of life were considered satisfactory by the owners.

Successful surgical attenuation of portosystemic shunt in a dog with imaging-diagnosed portal vein aplasia.

An 8-month-old female Maltese dog was referred for examination with a history of circling, dullness, and drooling. Serum biochemical analysis revealed hyperammonemia, with microhepatica observed on radiography. Computed tomography angiography revealed a portosystemic shunt originating from the right gastric vein and inserting into the prehepatic caudal vena cava. Portal blood flow to the liver was not observed. Based on computed tomography angiography, the dog was tentatively diagnosed with portosystemic shunt with portal vein aplasia. An exploratory laparotomy was done to obtain a definitive diagnosis. The dog had no subjective clinical signs of portal hypertension during a temporary occlusion test of the portosystemic shunt. A thin-film band was placed around the portosystemic shunt to achieve partial attenuation. There was no evidence of hepatic encephalopathy in the long term after surgery, and the dog's liver volume increased over time. Computed tomography angiography at 6 mo after surgery identified well-visualized intrahepatic portal branches. Key clinical message: We inferred that a direct occlusion test is a reliable diagnostic technique that overcomes the limitations of diagnostic imaging methods, including computed tomography angiography, and is a good technique for determining whether surgical attenuation is possible in dogs with suspected portal vein aplasia.

Atténuation chirurgicale réussie d'un shunt porto-systémique chez un chien avec une aplasie de la veine porte diagnostiquée par imagerie. Une femelle bichon maltais âgée de 8 mois a été référée pour examen avec une histoire de tournis, apathie et salivation excessive. L'analyse biochimique du sérum a révélé une hyperammionémie, avec un petit foie observé lors des radiographies. Une angiographie par tomodensitométrie a révélé un shunt porto-systémique prenant son origine de la veine gastrique droite et s'insérant dans la veine cave caudale pré-hépatique. Le flot sanguin porte au foie n'était pas observé. Sur la base de l'angiographie par tomodensitométrie, un diagnostic présumé de shunt porto-systémique avec aplasie de la veine porte a été émis. Une laparotomie exploratoire a été effectuée afin d'obtenir un diagnostic définitif. Le chien ne présentait pas de signe clinique subjectif d'hypertension portale durant un test d'occlusion temporaire du shunt porto-systémique. Une bande de film mince a été placée autour du shunt porto-systémique pour causer une réduction partielle. Il n'y avait aucune évidence d'encéphalopathie hépatique à long terme après la chirurgie, et le volume du foie du chien a augmenté dans le temps. Une angiographie par tomodensitométrie effectuée 6 mo après la chirurgie a permis de bien visualiser des branches portes intra-hépatiques.Message clinique clé :Nous avons déduit qu'un test d'occlusion est une technique diagnostique fiable qui surpasse les limites des méthodes d'imagerie diagnostique, incluant l'angiographie par tomodensitométrie, et est une bonne technique pour déterminer si une réduction chirurgicale est possible chez des chiens chez qui on soupçonne une aplasie de la veine porte.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).