Student case report: Pericardial mesothelioma in a 6-year-old German Shepherd dog

Authors: Bellaton C
Publication: Companion Quarterly, Volume 34, Issue 2, pp 34-38, Jun 2023
Publisher: Companion Animal Veterinarians Branch of New Zealand Veterinary Association

Animal type: Dog
Subject Terms: Neoplasia
Article class: Clinical Article

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Abstract:

Canine mesothelioma is a rare form of neoplasia in dogs which is challenging to diagnose and treat and is usually associated with a poor prognosis. Mesothelioma of the thoracic cavity can involve the pleural space and/ or the pericardial sac and this diffuse cavity involvement often requires an invasive method of biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. This case report describes the presentation, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of mesothelioma of the pericardial/pleural spaces in a 6-year-old German Shepherd dog that presented for lethargy, inappetence and a distended abdomen. Initial pericardiocentesis suggested septic pericardial disease. However the subsequent development of marked pleural effusion prompted surgical intervention, allowing relief from cardiac tamponade via a sub-total pericardiectomy and confirmation of the diagnosis by histopathology. Ultimately the treatment was unrewarding, with rapid return of pleural fluid prompting euthanasia.

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