StemCell Therapy

Lola, an 8-year-old pit bull terrier, presented to the Michigan State University Emergency and Critical Care Medicine Service on Friday, April 17, 2020 for tri-cavitary effusion, or fluid within the abdominal, chest, and pericardial cavities. Her owner noted that she had been lethargic and bloated for several days. Lolas additional medical history includes a long relationship with the MSU Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation services for knee injuries.

On presentation, Lola was quiet, alert and responsive with pink mucus membranes. Her heart and lungs were muffled on auscultation, though her heart rate was slightly faster than normal, and she demonstrated effort while breathing. She had a marked fluid wave, consistent with abdominal effusion. Pulse oximetry was 91% (most patients are >98%). Both abdominal and thoracic FAST scan (focused assessment with sonography for trauma) were positive for fluid throughout the abdomen, chest, and around the heart.

Approximately one hour later, Lolas mentation became dull and her mucous membranes were cyanotic (blue). A total of 880 mL of transudate (blood-tinged clear fluid) was removed from the area around her heart and lungs; no abnormal cells were noted by the pathologist. An echocardiogram was performed which revealed an at least 2.5 x 4.5 cm tumor over the left atrial body, compressing the heart.

Lola continued to develop fluid around the heart which required removal and placement of a pericardial catheter starting the next morning, Saturday, April 18.

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See the rest here:
Vetschool Tails: The beat goes on for long-time four-legged Spartan - MSUToday

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