Pleural Effusion in a Dog with Mesothelioma

Abstract

In this case; mesothelioma was likely diagnosed in 7 years old male mix breed dog which was brought to Veterinary Research and Teaching Hospital of Istanbul University with complaints of general weakness and severe dyspnea. The dog had been misdiagnosed with faryngitis and hernia diaphragmatica before it was brought to our faculty clinic. Apparent abdominal respiration was inspected and supressed heart sounds, abnormal respiratory sounds and pleural rub were detected by auscultation of thorax. Radiographic examination and blood analysis were performed. Chest X-ray examination demonstrates both sided pleural effusion. Leukocytosis (WBC = 36.2  10 3 µL) was detected on blood count. By thoracocentesis, 40 mL fluid was drained and cytologic examination was performed. Numerous pleomorphic, atypical, multinuclear or multinucleolar mesothelial cells were observed and cytologic findings were pretty compatible with mesothelioma. The dog died before medication and the owner of the dog didn't give the confirmation for necropsy. In our clinical case we did not confirm any contact of the dog with asbestos or larger amount of pesticides, which are described as etiological factors of mesothelioma. As mesothelioma is a very rare health condition for dogs, it might be lead up to misdiagnosis.