Splenomegaly in small-breed dogs: 45 cases(2005-2011)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Canine Oncology
• Surgical Outcomes

Background:

• Splenomegaly is a common clinical finding in dogs.
• Previous studies on splenomegaly causes and surgical outcomes primarily focused on large-breed dogs.
• Understanding these factors in small-breed dogs is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the causes of splenomegaly in small-breed dogs (<16 kg).
• To evaluate postsurgical outcomes following splenectomy in this population.
• To investigate the association between malignant disease, hemoperitoneum, and survival time.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series analysis of 45 client-owned small-breed dogs undergoing splenectomy.
• Review of medical records from two veterinary facilities.
• Histologic diagnosis, presence of hemoperitoneum, and survival time were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Malignant neoplasia (21 dogs) and benign splenic diseases (24 dogs) were equally prevalent.
• Hemangiosarcoma was the most frequent malignancy; lymphoid nodular hyperplasia, hematoma, or extramedullary hematopoiesis were common benign diagnoses.
• Wheaton Terriers showed a higher incidence of malignant splenic disease. Malignant disease and hemoperitoneum negatively impacted survival time.

Conclusions:

• Causes and outcomes of splenomegaly in small-breed dogs resemble those in large-breed dogs.
• Malignant and benign splenic conditions occur with similar frequency in small breeds.
• Hemoperitoneum may not be a significant predictor of malignancy in small-breed dogs; further research is warranted.