Case 16

Presentation:

A 2-year-old intact male, mix-breed dog was presented to AcaseAweek Clinic with history of loss of appetite for 2 weeks duration, rapid weight loss, labored breathing, and lethargy. The patient lives in an outdoor/enclosed area. Vaccines are overdue and the patient was de-wormed two months ago with fenbendazole. The patient is not on heartworm prevention. His diet consists of dried kibble mixed with rice fed once daily in the morning.

Physical exam:

• BAR
• Weight 14.3kg.
• Temp: 102.3oF
• HR/PR: 140
• RR: 40
• CRT <2>
• MM: pink and moist
• Body score: 2/5
• Patient showed respiratory distress with mild inspiratory effort, had shallow breathing but no open mouth breathing. The patients lung sounds were decreased ventrally. 
• Heart sounds were muffled. Abdominal and rectal palpation revealed no abnormalities. 

CBC and Chemistry: All values fell within normal limits. The snap test for heartworms, lyme, and ehrlichia was negative. Thoracic radiographs were taken as shown below (click on image to enlarge):

What are the radiographic findings?

What is tentative diagnosis?

What further diagnostic tests will you perform to confirm your diagnosis?

How will you treat and manage this case?

Solution to this case