Small animal veterinary case study – Dougie MN lhasa apso

Case provided by Yvonne McGrotty BVMS CertSAM DipECVIM-CA MRCVS
European Specialist in Veterinary Internal Medicine
RCVS Specialist in Veterinary Internal Medicine

Dougie is a 3yr MN Lhasa Apso who presented with a recent history of abdominal distension and decreased appetite. Bloods revealed low albumin and low cholesterol and increased bile acids consistent with liver dysfunction.

Figure 1: Dougie

Figure 2: Ultrasound of abdomen showing free fluid separating the liver lobes

Figure 3: Free fluid highlighting the spleen

Figure 4: Laparoscopic image of the abnormal liver

Figure 5: A nodule on the surface of the liver

Figure 6: Biopsy forceps about to collect a liver biopsy

Conclusion
The fluid was aspirated and confirmed to be a transudate.
Laparascopic liver biopsies were obtained after checking Dougie’s clotting times were within range. Liver biopsies have confirmed that Dougie has chronic hepatitis with cirrhosis. He is currently doing fairly well on medical treatment and all the abdominal fluid has resolved.