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Suspected iatrogenic paradoxical embolization in a cat.
Henry W Green1, Daniel F Hogan
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907-1248, USA.
Summary
A cat with tetralogy of Fallot experienced exercise-induced cyanosis. Diagnostic catheterization led to paradoxical embolization, resulting in euthanasia and highlighting a rare complication.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Cardiology
- Cardiovascular Pathology
Background:
- Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart defect.
- Exercise-induced cyanosis and panting are clinical signs.
Observation:
- A cat presented with a 5-year history of progressive, episodic, exercise-induced cyanosis and panting.
- Diagnostic testing revealed tetralogy of Fallot with significant right-to-left shunting and right-sided heart failure.
Findings:
- Post-catheterization, the cat exhibited signs of systemic arterial thromboembolization.
- Necropsy confirmed multiple thrombi and thromboemboli, consistent with iatrogenic paradoxical embolization.
- This suggests a complication secondary to diagnostic catheterization.
Implications:
- Highlights the risk of paradoxical embolization during diagnostic cardiac procedures in animals.
- Emphasizes the importance of careful technique and monitoring during catheterization.
- Underscores the potential for thromboembolic events as a severe complication in veterinary cardiology.