Splenic hematoma and hemoperitoneum in a Thoroughbred racehorse after racing.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical presentation of a Thoroughbred filly with acute hemoperitoneum from a splenic source immediately after racing. ANIMAL: A 3-year-old Thoroughbred filly used for racing and that had raced shortly before presentation to the hospital. CLINICAL PRESENTATION, PROGRESSION, AND PROCEDURES: On presentation, the filly was quiet, alert, and responsive with a heart rate of 76 beats/min, pale mucous membranes, and absent borborygmi. All other physical examination parameters were within normal limits. Abdominal ultrasound was performed and revealed echogenic free abdominal fluid and a splenic hematoma. Abdominocentesis yielded sanguinous fluid with a PCV of 35%. The next day, repeat ultrasound revealed the splenic hematoma with capsular separation. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME: The filly was treated overnight with isotonic crystalloid fluids and aminocaproic acid (40 mg/kg, IV, slow bolus over 30 minutes followed by 20 mg/kg, IV, q 6 h), potassium penicillin (22,000 IU/kg, IV, q 6 h), gentamicin (6.6 mg/kg, IV, q 24 h), and omeprazole (4 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h). The lowest PCV obtained from the filly was 36 hours after presentation. The filly stabilized with medical treatment and was discharged to a farm for further recuperation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: There are no published reports detailing hemoperitoneum of splenic origin in Thoroughbreds immediately after racing. Hemoperitoneum of splenic origin is not common in horses, with most cases of hemoperitoneum being secondary to acute trauma, neoplasia, parturition, or postoperative complications. While uncommon, this case raises awareness to another differential for a colicky horse immediately after racing.

Acute hepatic rupture causing hemoperitoneum in a dog with anaphylaxis.

A 2-year-old spayed female Siberian Husky was presented with a history of acute onset lethargy, collapse, haematochezia and vomiting. The patient was severely tachycardic and hypotensive. Point-of-care ultrasound revealed gallbladder wall thickening and peritoneal effusion consistent with haemorrhage on subsequent abdominocentesis. Despite attempted medical stabilization over the course of several hours, including blood products and multiple autotransfusions, the patient progressed to cardiopulmonary arrest. The dog was successfully resuscitated but was subsequently euthanized. Necropsy revealed a severe, acute hemoperitoneum secondary to rupture of the left lateral liver lobe. A tear in the hepatic capsule was identified along with a large hematoma. A single adult nematode, consistent with Dirofilaria immitis, was found in a pulmonary vessel in the right caudal lung lobe. The remaining necropsy findings were supportive of the clinical diagnosis of anaphylaxis. This report details a case, with necropsy findings, supporting a diagnosis of anaphylaxis and severe, refractory hemoperitoneum resulting from hepatic rupture. Acute hepatic rupture should be considered in cases of anaphylaxis-related hemoperitoneum.

Retrospective evaluation of admission total plasma protein as a predictor of red blood cell transfusion requirement in dogs diagnosed with traumatic and nontraumatic hemoabdomen: 90 dogs (2009-2019).

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association of admission total plasma protein (TPP) and the administration of red blood cell transfusions in dogs with diagnosed hemoabdomen. To secondarily evaluate additional point-of-care parameters associated with red blood cell transfusion administration. DESIGN: Retrospective study between 2009 and 2019. SETTING: University veterinary teaching hospital. ANIMALS: Ninety dogs admitted to a university veterinary teaching hospital after a diagnosis of traumatic or nontraumatic hemoabdomen (NTH). MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Medical records were retrospectively reviewed; signalment, point-of-care diagnostics, and transfusion administration information was recorded. A total of 47 dogs (traumatic hemoabdomen 11/26; NTH 36/64) received packed red blood cell transfusions. For each 1 g/dL unit decrease in TPP, dogs had an increased odds ratio (OR) of 2.14 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.44-3.40, P < 0.001) of receiving a red blood cell transfusion. Dogs diagnosed with NTH were more likely to receive a red blood cell transfusion than dogs with a traumatic hemoabdomen (OR: 2.78, 95% CI: 1.11-7.141, P = 0.03). Lower PCV values (OR: 1.08, 95% CI: 1.04-1.12, P < 0.001), bicarbonate values (OR: 1.3, 95% CI: 1.09-1.56, P = 0.003), and base excess (OR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.1-1.49, P = 0.003) were associated with a higher likelihood of red blood cell transfusion. Additionally, higher lactate (OR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.16-1.63, P < 0.001) and Acute Patient Physiologic and Laboratory Evaluation (APPLE)fast scores (OR: 1.10, 95% CI: 1.04-1.17, P < 0.001) were associated with increased red blood cell transfusion administration. CONCLUSIONS: Low admission TPP, independent of low PCV, was associated with red blood cell transfusions regardless of underlying cause. For each 1 g/dL unit decrease in TPP on presentation, dogs were approximately 2 times more likely to receive a red blood cell transfusion during hospitalization. Other factors that were associated with increased transfusion administration included presenting PCV, PCV/TPP ratio, bicarbonate, base excess, lactate, and APPLEfast scores.

Successful intra-abdominal resection of a 24 kg ovarian granulosa cell tumor in a Warmblood mare.

Background: Granulosa cell tumors (GCTs) are the most common ovarian tumors in mares. The classical presentation of a GCT is a unilaterally enlarged ovary appearing as a multicystic honeycomb mass. In rare cases, GCTs cause hemoperitoneum as a result of the rapid growth of the tumor. The clinical diagnosis of GCT is usually based on history, rectal examination, ultrasonographic examination, and serum hormone analysis, and surgical removal of the affected ovary is the treatment of choice. The different surgical approaches are based on the dimension of the GCT. Case Description: A 7-year-old mare was referred to the department for horses due to suspicion of a large colon impaction. The mare presented with clinical signs of colic, fever, and signs of hypovolemic shock. Rectal and ultrasonographic examination showed hemoperitoneum and a honey-comb mass within the abdomen, and a GCT as the cause of an acute hemoperitoneum was diagnosed based on the serum level of anti-Müllerian hormone. After stabilization of the mare, the GCT was removed through a ventral midline incision. Because of the enormous dimensions of the GCT, intra-abdominal partial resection of the tumor using a tenotomy knife was necessary to exteriorize the ovarian pedicle. At 3 months follow-up, the mare was ridden for her intended use. Conclusion: This report provides an approach to an uncommon case of a very large and heavy GCT.

Hepatic arteriovenous malformation in a calf.

A case of hepatic arteriovenous malformation is described in a calf that presented with a marked increase in abdominal volume and died 12 h after birth. At necropsy, the calf had marked abdominal distension and haemoperitoneum. The left hepatic lobe was reduced in size and covered by slightly whitish and intensely vascularized membranous tissue. At the edge of the left lobe there were cystic structures filled with translucent fluid. On cut surface, there were multiple cavitations well delimited by whitish walls and multiple dilated blood vessels that communicated with the cavitations. Histopathology revealed an increase in the number of vascular structures of variable calibre within loose fibrous connective tissue. The diagnosis of hepatic arteriovenous malformation was based on the lesions and confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Hepatic arteriovenous malformations are rare in all species, have not been described in cattle and should be included as a cause of mortality in neonates with post-partum haemoperitoneum.

Perioperative ventricular arrhythmias are increased with hemoperitoneum and are associated with increased mortality in dogs undergoing splenectomy for splenic masses.

OBJECTIVE: To identify risk factors for intra- and postoperative ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) and in-hospital mortality in dogs undergoing splenectomy for splenic masses. ANIMALS: 308 dogs. METHODS: Records from 2010 through 2018 were reviewed for dogs undergoing splenectomy for a splenic mass. Clinical and laboratory findings on admission, diagnostic imaging, anesthesia, surgery and pathology reports, treatment records, and in-hospital mortality were evaluated with logistic regression. RESULTS: VAs occurred in 138 (44.8%) dogs (126/308 [40.9%] postoperative, 51/308 [16.6%] intraoperative, 26/308 [8.4%] preoperative), with 50/308 (16.2%) dogs having more than one type of VA. Increasing heart rate and body weight, decreasing PCV and platelet count, hemoperitoneum, receipt of a transfusion, and diagnosis of hemangiosarcoma were associated with the presence of intra- and postoperative VAs on univariable analysis (all P < .001). On multivariable analysis, hemoperitoneum (P < .001 , < .001), increasing body weight (P = .026, < .001), and increasing heart rate (P = .028, < .001) were significant for intra- and postoperative VAs, respectively. Twenty dogs died (20/308 [6.5%]; 14/138 [10.1%] with VAs, 6/170 [3.5%] without VAs). Intra- and postoperative VAs were associated with in-hospital mortality (P = .009, .025, respectively). CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Perioperative VAs were common and odds of VAs were increased with hemoperitoneum, increasing heart rate, and increasing body weight. Presence of VAs increased the odds of in-hospital mortality. Despite this, the overall in-hospital mortality rate was low (6.5%), indicating a good prognosis for survival of surgery in dogs with splenic masses, regardless of the presence of VAs or hemoperitoneum.

Prevalence of malignancy and factors affecting outcome of cats undergoing splenectomy.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of splenic malignancy in cats undergoing splenectomy and to investigate possible factors associated with post-operative outcome. ANIMALS: 62 client-owned cats that underwent splenectomy. METHODS: Medical records of 4 UK-based referral hospitals were searched and data reviewed retrospectively over 17 years. Factors associated with outcomes post-splenectomy were analyzed. RESULTS: 50 out of 62 cats (81%) were diagnosed with splenic neoplasia. Mast cell tumor ([MCT], 42%), hemangiosarcoma ([HSA], 40%), lymphoma and histiocytic sarcoma (6% each) were the most common tumor types. Fifteen cats (24%) presented with spontaneous hemoabdomen and were all diagnosed with splenic neoplasia. The diagnostic accuracy of cytology to detect splenic malignant lesions was 73% (100% for MCTs and 54% for mesenchymal tumors). Median survival time for cats with nonneoplastic splenic lesions was 715 days (IQR, 18 to 1,368) and 136 days for cats with splenic neoplasia (IQR, 35 to 348); median survival time was longer for cats with splenic MCT when compared to cats with HSA (348 vs 94 days; P < .001). Presence of metastatic disease and anemia (PCV < 24%) at diagnosis were associated with a poorer survival when considering all cats. Presence of anemia, a splenic mass on imaging or spontaneous hemoabdomen were associated with a diagnosis of HSA (P < .001). CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Benign splenic lesions were uncommon in this cohort of cats. Spontaneous hemoabdomen should prompt the clinician to suspect neoplasia in cats with splenic disease. Anemia and evidence of metastasis at diagnosis were poor prognostic factors regardless of the final diagnosis.

Retrospective evaluation of the diagnostic utility of computed tomography in dogs with nontraumatic hemoperitoneum: 26 cases (2015-2020).

OBJECTIVE: To describe the appearance of lesions noted on abdominal computed tomography (CT) in dogs with spontaneous hemoperitoneum and determine the utility in using CT to differentiate benign from malignant lesions. DESIGN: Retrospective case series. SETTING: Single-center, university veterinary teaching emergency service. ANIMALS: Twenty-six dogs presented between 2015 and 2020 with spontaneous hemoperitoneum confirmed via abdominocentesis with pre- and postcontrast abdominal CT performed prior to surgery or euthanasia. INTERVENTIONS: None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: On histopathological diagnosis, 20 of 26 lesions were found to be malignant, and 6 of 26 were benign. Two radiologists reviewed the CTs. Radiologist 1 correctly identified 5 of 6 (83.3%) benign cases and 18 of 20 (90%) malignant cases. Radiologist 2 correctly identified 2 of 6 (33.3%) benign lesions and 18 of 20 (90%) malignant cases. Of the 10 imaging descriptors evaluated, none were significantly associated with the histological diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: Results from the current study suggest that abdominal CT imaging of spontaneous hemoperitoneum cases is not a reliable indicator of malignancy versus benignancy. As such, prognosis should not be defined using this modality alone prior to emergency surgery and instead should be concluded based on the clinical course of the patient and histopathological findings of the resected tissues after surgery.

Rapid resolution of hyperfibrinolysis in dogs with spontaneous hemoperitoneum following surgical control of hemorrhage.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the point prevalence and duration of hyperfibrinolysis (HF) in dogs undergoing surgical control of spontaneous hemoperitoneum (SHP). DESIGN: Prospective observational study. SETTING: Single veterinary teaching hospital. ANIMALS: Forty-five client-owned dogs with SHP were screened for HF. Eighteen HF dogs treated surgically were studied. INTERVENTIONS: None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Dogs with SHP and evidence of shock admitted for surgical control of hemorrhage were screened for HF. Blood samples were collected for PCV, total plasma protein, platelet count, and thromboelastography with 50 U/mL of tissue plasminogen activator at presentation and every 8 hours postoperatively until 72 hours, discharge, or death. HF was defined as a tissue plasminogen activator-activated thromboelastography lysis percentage measured 30 minutes after maximum amplitude (LY30) of ≥20%. LY30 values were compared to a cohort of samples obtained from healthy dogs (n = 22). The point prevalence of HF in all dogs screened was 40% (18/45 dogs), and the mean LY30 at baseline for HF dogs was 48.9% (±24.2%), which was significantly higher than that of control dogs (4.8% ± 7.1%, P < 0.001) and non-HF dogs (1.9% ± 5.7%, P < 0.001). In HF dogs, there was a significant decrease in LY30 between baseline and 8 hours (P < 0.0001) and between 8 and 16 hours (P = 0.035) but no significant change thereafter. LY30 at 8 hours (4%, range: 0%-23.4%) was not statistically different from control dogs (6.5%, range: 1.2%-32.8%, P = 0.664) suggesting early resolution of HF in this population. Only 2 of 18 dogs were persistently hyperfibrinolytic at 24 hours. Malignancy was diagnosed in 12 of 18 dogs (66.6%), while a benign etiology occurred in 6 of 18 dogs (33.3%). All HF dogs survived to discharge. CONCLUSIONS: HF occurs in some dogs with hypovolemic shock due to hemoperitoneum but resolves rapidly following surgical control of bleeding without antifibrinolytic medications. Routine postoperative use of antifibrinolytics in dogs with hemoperitoneum in dogs undergoing surgical control of bleeding may not be warranted.

Acute kidney injury from presumptive intramural ureteral hemorrhage secondary to diphacinone rodenticide exposure in a dog.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical features and outcome of a dog with anticoagulant rodenticide (diphacinone) exposure, which was subsequently diagnosed with a coagulopathy characterized by hemoperitoneum, and presumptive ureteral wall hemorrhage contributing to acute kidney injury (AKI). CASE SUMMARY: A 4-year-old, female neutered Australian Cattle Dog was evaluated for an acute onset of lethargy, decreased appetite, and a mild right thoracic limb lameness. Radiographs and point of care ultrasound demonstrated retroperitoneal and peritoneal effusion. Diagnostic abdominocentesis confirmed hemorrhagic effusion. Complete blood count, biochemistry, and coagulation profile showed a regenerative anemia (PCV 32%), thrombocytopenia (platelets 96 × 109 /L [96 × 103 /µl]), azotemia (BUN 38.9 mmol/L [109 mg/dl], creatinine 512.8 µmol/L [5.8 mg/dl]), and coagulopathy (prothrombin time >100 s, activated partial thromboplastin time >42.3 s). The client reported access to anticoagulant rodenticide up to 72 hours prior to presentation. Ultrasonographic examination revealed bilateral pyelectasia and hydroureter with thickened distal ureteral walls at the level of the ureteral-vesicular junctions. The ultrasonographic conclusion was presumptive intramural ureteral hemorrhage resulting in ureteral obstruction. The patient was diagnosed with AKI with likely prerenal, renal, and postrenal components. Treatment included vitamin K and frozen plasma transfusion. The patient recovered fully and was discharged 3 days after presentation. Two days after discharge, the patient had improvement in azotemia (BUN 10.7 mmol/L [30 mg/dl], creatinine 176.6 µmol/L [2.0 mg/dl]). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry confirmed presence of diphacinone in the blood. Repeat ultrasound and biochemistry 60 and 210 days, respectively, after discharge showed resolution of ureteral wall thickening, hydroureter, pyelectasia, and recovery of kidney parameters. NEW OR UNIQUE INFORMATION: Although nephropathies secondary to anticoagulant therapy have been described in people, the authors believe this is the first report of diphacinone anticoagulant rodenticide exposure contributing to an AKI secondary to obstruction from ureteral wall hemorrhage in the veterinary literature.

Histopathologic findings and survival outcomes of dogs undergoing liver lobectomy as treatment for spontaneous hemoabdomen secondary to a ruptured liver mass: retrospective analysis of 200 cases (2012-2020).

OBJECTIVE: To describe the distribution of histopathologic diagnoses in a large population of dogs undergoing surgical treatment for spontaneous hemoperitoneum secondary to a ruptured liver mass. Additionally, to describe survival outcomes and assess for prognostic factors for overall survival time in this population. ANIMALS: 200 client-owned dogs with spontaneous hemoperitoneum resulting from a liver mass. PROCEDURES: Medical records from 19 veterinary referral hospitals were reviewed. Data collected included signalment, clinical signs, blood work, radiographic and ultrasonographic findings, surgical methods, intraoperative and postoperative complications, outcomes, and histopathologic findings. Follow-up information was obtained by contacting the referring veterinarian or owner. RESULTS: Well-differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma, benign masses, hemangiosarcoma, and other malignant tumors accounted for 36% (72/200), 27.5% (55/200), 25.5% (51/200), and 11% (22/200) of cases, respectively. Overall survival time for all dogs was 356 days and for the above categories was 897 days, 905 days, 45 days, and 109 days, respectively. Prognostic factors for survival included diagnosis, increased ALT, anemia, and whether a transfusion was received. Overall survival time in dogs with increased ALT was 644 versus 63 days with normal values. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The majority of dogs (63.5%) were diagnosed with well-differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma or a benign process, resulting in favorable long-term survival. The distribution of histopathology for ruptured liver masses resulting in hemoperitoneum has not been previously reported and may be useful for client discussions prior to surgery.

Evaluation of the validity of the double two-thirds rule for diagnosing hemangiosarcoma in dogs with nontraumatic hemoperitoneum due to a ruptured splenic mass: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the validity of the double two-thirds rule for a diagnosis of splenic hemangiosarcoma in dogs with nontraumatic hemoperitoneum due to a ruptured splenic mass. SAMPLE: Systematic literature review. PROCEDURES: 3 databases (PubMed, CAB abstracts, and World of Science) were searched in November 2020. Articles were included if data on dogs with nontraumatic hemoperitoneum due to a splenic mass were included and subsequent pathologic diagnosis could be determined. RESULTS: In total, 2,390 unique articles were identified, with 66 articles meeting the criteria for full-text review and 14 articles included for analysis. A total of 1,150 dogs were evaluated, with 73.0% (840/1,150) of dogs being diagnosed with a malignant splenic lesion and 27.0% (310/1,150) being diagnosed with a benign splenic lesion. Of the malignancies, 87.3% (733/840) were hemangiosarcoma. Levels of evidence were low, and bias was high as most included studies were retrospective case series. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The double two-thirds rule should be refined when evaluating dogs with nontraumatic hemoperitoneum from a ruptured splenic mass, with more dogs being diagnosed with a malignancy and hemangiosarcoma specifically than the double two-thirds rule indicates. These findings may be useful in an emergency setting to guide owners on potential diagnoses for dogs with nontraumatic hemoperitoneum due to a ruptured splenic mass. However, there remains a portion of these dogs with benign conditions and nonhemangiosarcoma malignancies that may have a good long-term prognosis compared to dogs with hemangiosarcoma. Studies with higher levels of evidence, lower risks of bias, and large case numbers are needed in the literature.

Treatment and outcomes of two pigs treated for hemoabdomen secondary to splenic disease.

OBJECTIVE: To report the management and outcomes of two pigs undergoing emergency surgery for hemoabdomen secondary to splenic disease. STUDY DESIGN: Case report. ANIMAL: Two adult pigs with hemoabdomen and suspected splenic pathology. METHODS: Pigs were admitted for several clinical signs including lethargy, inappetence, vomiting, abdominal distention, hypothermia, and tachycardia. Abdominal ultrasound and abdominocentesis led to a diagnosis of hemoabdomen secondary to splenic disease. RESULTS: The spleen was confirmed as the source of hemorrhage during midline exploratory celiotomy in both pigs. Splenic rupture resulted from splenic vein thrombosis in one pig and splenic torsion in the other. Complications included intraoperative hemorrhage and intraabdominal adhesion formation. Four years following splenectomy, one pig was euthanized because of widespread small intestinal adhesions causing luminal obstruction, while the other pig was euthanized following a diagnosis of chronic myeloid leukemia. CONCLUSIONS: A ventral midline celiotomy provided adequate exposure for splenectomy. The procedure allowed resolution of signs in both pigs. Splenic pathology, such as vessel thrombosis or torsion, may result in splenic rupture and should be considered as a differential in pigs with hemoabdomen.

Early career clinicians euthanize more dogs with nontraumatic hemoabdomen but not gastric dilatation and volvulus than more experienced clinicians.

OBJECTIVE: To determine if clinician experience influenced the euthanasia rate in 2 common surgical emergencies. ANIMALS: 142 dogs with nontraumatic hemoabdomen (NTH) due to suspected ruptured splenic mass and 99 dogs with gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) where the owner either elected surgery or euthanasia. PROCEDURES: Medical records were reviewed for dogs that had either NTH or GDV. For each patient, the owner's decision to pursue euthanasia versus surgery was recorded. The primary clinician was categorized as an intern, defined as a clinician with < 12 months experience, or a non-intern, defined as a clinician with more than 12 months experience. The euthanasia rates were compared used a Fisher exact, and the 95% CI was calculated for the risk of euthanasia if the primary clinician was an intern compared with a non-intern. If a difference was identified, subgroups comparing time of day, referral status, age, Hct, total solids, lactate, and heart rate were evaluated using a t test with a Bonferroni correction for the continuous variables and a Fisher exact for categorical variables. RESULTS: For dogs with NTH, the euthanasia rate for cases primarily managed by non-interns (52%) was significantly lower than that of interns (76%; P = .005). The relative risk of euthanasia associated with NTH when the case was treated by an intern was 1.44 with a 95% CI of 1.1229 to 1.8567. For 99 dogs with GDV, the rate of euthanasia was not different between interns and non-interns. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The euthanasia rate for dogs with NTH may be impacted by the level of experience of the clinician. Support of new clinicians during challenging conversations should be provided.

Effect of early administration of tranexamic acid on ongoing haemorrhage in dogs with non-surgically treated haemoabdomen.

INTRODUCTION: Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic drug used for the prophylaxis and treatment of haemorrhage of various origin. This retrospective study investigated the effect of TXA on ongoing bleeding in dogs with nonsurgically treated haemoabdomen. The study population consisted of 48 dogs treated in the period 2009-2020 at the Small Animal Clinic of the Vetsuisse Faculty of Zurich. Twenty-eight of 48 dogs were treated with 20 mg/kg TXA IV within 3h of diagnosis of haemoabdomen. Dogs treated with and without TXA were monitored over 48 hours for signs of ongoing haemorrhage. Ongoing haemorrhage was defined as an increase in abdominal fluid accumulation, a decrease in haematocrit of >5% over time or need for surgical exploration after at least 12 hours of medical treatment. Transfusion requirements, cumulative amount of fluid therapy, heart rate, respiratory rate, temperature, systolic and mean arterial pressure, estimate of abdominal fluid identified by FAST analysis, venous haematocrit, abdominal haematocrit, serum albumin, serum lactate and thrombocyte count were extracted from patient records at 6, 12, 24 and 48 hours after diagnosis of haemoabdomen. Groups were comparable at presentation, however dogs of the TXA group showed a significantly lower abdominal haematocrit at presentation (37 vs 45%, P=0,034) and a higher fluid accumulation (P=0,019), both persisting over time. None of the outcome parameters for ongoing haemorrhage was significantly different between groups. Transfusion requirement was low and similar in both groups. Of interest, none of the 16 dogs undergoing thromboelastometry showed hyperfibrinolysis at presentation. We conclude that other mechanisms than antifibrinolytic therapy was responsible for cessation of bleeding in the majority of patients.

INTRODUCTION: L'acide tranexamique (TXA) est un médicament anti fibrinolytique utilisé pour la prophylaxie et le traitement des hémorragies d'origines diverses. Cette étude rétrospective a examiné l'effet du TXA sur les saignements en cours chez les chiens présentant un hémoabdomen traité sans chirurgie. La population étudiée était composée de 48 chiens traités entre 2009 et 2020 à la clinique pour petits animaux de la faculté Vetsuisse de Zurich. Vingt-huit des 48 chiens ont été traités avec 20 mg/kg de TXA IV dans les 3 heures suivant le diagnostic de l'hémoabdomen. Les chiens traités avec et sans TXA ont été surveillés pendant 48 heures pour détecter les signes d'hémorragie en cours. L'hémorragie en cours a été définie comme une augmentation de l'accumulation de liquide abdominal, une diminution de l'hématocrite de >5% dans le temps ou la nécessité d'une exploration chirurgicale après au moins 12 heures de traitement médical. Les besoins transfusionnels, la quantité cumulative de traitement liquidien, la fréquence cardiaque, la fréquence respiratoire, la température, la pression artérielle systolique et moyenne, l'estimation du liquide abdominal identifié par l'analyse FAST, l'hématocrite veineux, l'hématocrite abdominal, l'albumine sérique, le lactate sérique et la numération des thrombocytes ont été extraits des dossiers des patients à 6, 12, 24 et 48 heures après le diagnostic d'hémoabdomen. Les groupes étaient comparables à la présentation, mais les chiens du groupe TXA présentaient un hématocrite abdominal significativement plus faible à la présentation (37 vs 45 %, P=0,034) et une accumulation de liquide plus importante (P=0,019), ces deux phénomènes persistant dans le temps. Aucun des paramètres de résultat pour l'hémorragie en cours n'était significativement différent entre les groupes. Les besoins en transfusion étaient faibles et similaires dans les deux groupes. Il est intéressant de noter qu'aucun des 16 chiens soumis à la thromboélastométrie ne montrait d'hyperfibrinolyse à la présentation. Nous concluons que d'autres mécanismes que le traitement anti fibrinolytique étaient responsables de l'arrêt des saignements chez la majorité des patients.

Arterial malformations leading to bilateral spontaneous renal hemorrhage in a dog.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging, management, and follow-up of a dog that presented with sequential, bilateral, spontaneous, subcapsular and perirenal hemorrhage (Wunderlich syndrome) due to bilateral renal arterial malformations. CASE SUMMARY: A 9-year-old intact male Field Spaniel presented for acute onset abdominal pain following a possible syncopal episode. Abdominal ultrasonography, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, and computed tomography (CT) revealed right-sided perirenal hemorrhage that extended into the peritoneum. The dog was discharged following stabilization with analgesia, fluid therapy, and tranexamic acid. One month later, the patient presented with identical clinical signs. A CT scan at this stage revealed bilateral kidney infarcts with new left-sided perirenal hemorrhage. Abdominal ultrasound and contrast-enhanced ultrasound were repeated and showed similar findings. Follow up with four-dimensional CT angiography revealed bilateral renal arterial malformations, likely causing spontaneous renal hemorrhage and secondary subcapsular hematomas , retroperitoneal and peritoneal hemorrhage. UNIQUE INFORMATION PROVIDED: This is the first reported case of both bilateral renal arterial malformations and bilateral spontaneous subcapsular and perirenal hemorrhage in the absence of neoplasia, coagulopathy, or trauma in a dog. Advanced imaging modalities, including selective angiography, were required to diagnose this condition successfully. Arterial malformations should be considered as a differential diagnosis in cases of hemoretroperitoneum. Nephrectomy due to perirenal hemorrhage should be cautiously considered, especially in the absence of angiography, because of the sequential bilateral nature of this case. Conservative management in this case resulted in a good long-term outcome 10 months later.

Prognostic value of sternal lymphadenopathy on malignancy and survival in dogs undergoing splenectomy.

The purpose of this retrospective cohort study was to determine prevalence of sternal lymphadenopathy in a population of dogs undergoing splenectomy, and to evaluate if the prevalence was associated with splenic malignancy. In addition, the study investigated if survival in dogs diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma (HSA) differed between those with or without sternal lymphadenopathy at the time of surgery. Digital radiographs and medical records for dogs who underwent splenectomy from 2013 to 2016 where retrospectively reviewed. One hundred ninety-five dogs underwent splenectomy during the study period. The overall prevalence of sternal lymphadenopathy was 12.8%. The prevalence of sternal lymphadenopathy in dogs with hemangiosarcoma was 16.2% (12/74), other malignancy was 15.8% (3/19), and with a benign process 9.8% (10/102). There was no significant association between sternal lymphadenopathy with hemoperitoneum (p = .20) or between sternal lymphadenopathy and presence of neoplasia (p = .37). There was no significant difference in survival probability in all dogs with or without sternal lymphadenopathy (p = .073). However, sternal lymphadenopathy was associated with lower survival in 74 dogs with HSA (p = .036) and 19 with other splenic malignancies (p = .039). The presence of sternal lymphadenopathy should not be considered a negative prognostic indicator if present in dogs presenting with a hemoperitoneum. Although the presence of sternal lymphadenopathy at the time of initial presentation was not significantly associated with survival time in all dogs with splenic disease, it may have predictive value related to survival of dogs with splenic malignancy.

Nontraumatic hemoabdomen and pancytopenia secondary to myelolipoma in a cat.

OBJECTIVE: (1) To report an unusual etiology for nontraumatic hemoabdomen in cats, and (2) to describe onset and recovery from severe, unexpected pancytopenia seen after surgical removal of a large intra-abdominal myelolipoma. CASE SUMMARY: A 14-year-old neutered male domestic shorthair cat was presented for emergent treatment of suspected nontraumatic hemoabdomen. A hyperechoic mass, with ultrasonographic echogenicity similar to fat, was found in the right cranial abdomen and believed to be associated with the mesentery. Cytological examination of abdominal fluid identified marked extramedullary hematopoiesis within the hemorrhagic effusion. Exploratory laparotomy identified a hepatic mass, which was resected, and revealed to be a hepatic myelolipoma on histopathological examination. The patient's initial recovery was uneventful. However, continued hyporexia resulted in readmission 4 days postoperatively, at which time the patient was found to have a profound, tri-lineage pancytopenia, and cytological evidence indicative of bone marrow recovery. The pancytopenia resolved with continued medical management and supportive care. NEW OR UNIQUE INFORMATION PROVIDED: Ruptured myelolipoma is not a commonly considered differential for nontraumatic hemoabdomen in cats. Furthermore, severe pancytopenia is unexpected following surgical resection of a myelolipoma. This case provides a unique clinical presentation of both nontraumatic hemoabdomen and bone marrow recovery.

Diagnostic utility of abdominal ultrasonography for evaluation of dogs with nontraumatic hemoabdomen: 94 cases (2014-2017).

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the utility of abdominal ultrasonography (AUS) to detect grossly evident masses in dogs with nontraumatic hemoabdomen. ANIMALS: 94 client-owned dogs. PROCEDURES: Electronic medical records from 2014 to 2017 were searched to identify dogs with nontraumatic hemoabdomen that had an AUS performed by a radiologist and subsequently underwent gross evaluation by surgery or necropsy. Ultrasonography, surgery, and histology reports were reviewed, and descriptive statistics were performed. Sensitivity of ultrasonography to detect grossly identifiable masses was calculated. RESULTS: Differences were identified between AUS and surgical or necropsy findings for 51 of 94 (54%) dogs. Splenic masses were most commonly identified as the cause of hemoabdomen. Sensitivity of AUS was 87.4%, 37.3%, and 31.3% for masses in the spleen, liver, and mesentery, respectively. Five dogs had more lesions identified with AUS than were found on gross evaluation; 0 of 6 dogs with peritoneal diffuse nodular metastasis had lesions detected by AUS. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In this sample of dogs, the utility of AUS to detect grossly identifiable lesions in dogs with nontraumatic hemoabdomen was limited, with the highest and lowest sensitivity found for splenic masses and diffuse nodular metastasis, respectively.

Anaphylaxis-related hemoperitoneum in 11 dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the unique complication of hemoperitoneum associated with anaphylaxis. DESIGN: Retrospective case series from September 2012 to August 2017. SETTING: Two private emergency and specialty referral hospitals. ANIMALS: Eleven client-owned dogs diagnosed with anaphylaxis and hemoperitoneum upon presentation or referral. INTERVENTIONS: None. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Inclusion criteria included clinical signs consistent with anaphylaxis (hypotension, tachycardia, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, collapse, with or without the presence of dermal signs) due to witnessed or unwitnessed presumed bee sting, an elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT), performance of abdominal FAST (AFAST) examination with an abdominal fluid score, the sonographic presence of gallbladder wall edema, and hemoperitoneum. All dogs (n=11) were managed medically without surgical intervention. 91% (n=10) of dogs survived to discharge. CONCLUSIONS: Hemoperitoneum development can be seen with anaphylactic reactions, though the exact mechanism remains to be fully understood. Medical therapy is warranted and can be successful in these patients; surgery is not indicated to address hemoperitoneum.