Imaging diagnosis--pulmonary interstitial emphysema in a dog

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Radiology
• Pulmonary Medicine
• Comparative Pathology

Background:

• Pulmonary interstitial emphysema (PIE) is a rare lung condition primarily affecting premature infants on mechanical ventilation.
• While documented in human neonates and occasionally adults, PIE is not well-characterized in mature veterinary patients.
• This case explores PIE in a mature dog presenting with significant respiratory compromise.

Observation:

• A mature dog with diagnosed pneumopathy underwent computed tomography (CT) for detailed lung evaluation.
• CT imaging demonstrated a distinct bronchiolar pattern and lobar opacification.
• Gas was observed within the pulmonary interstitial space, tracking along pulmonary vessels.

Findings:

• The CT findings in the dog are consistent with pulmonary interstitial emphysema (PIE) as observed in human neonates.
• The presence of interstitial gas suggests alveolar-interstitial disruption.
• Severe underlying lung disease and/or anesthetic-induced hyperventilation are proposed as potential contributing factors.

Implications:

• This case expands the known spectrum of pulmonary interstitial emphysema to include mature, non-neonatal canine patients.
• It highlights the utility of computed tomography in diagnosing rare pulmonary conditions in veterinary medicine.
• Further research is warranted to understand the pathogenesis and clinical significance of PIE in adult animals.