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Splenic torsion in a cat with chronic anemia
Melissa C Bucknoff1, Kerry E Rolph1
1Center for Integrative Mammalian Research, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, St Kitts, West Indies.
JFMS Open Reports
|February 2, 2024
Summary
This is the first reported case of splenic torsion in a cat, a condition presenting with vomiting and abdominal distension. Surgical removal of the spleen resolved the cat's anemia and symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Comparative Pathology
Background:
- Splenic torsion is a rare but serious condition in animals.
- Chronic anemia and splenomegaly can predispose cats to splenic complications.
Observation:
- A 4-year-old domestic shorthair cat presented with acute lethargy, vomiting, and abdominal distension.
- Physical examination revealed a firm, enlarged spleen, with ultrasound confirming splenomegaly and suspected splenic infarct.
Findings:
- Exploratory surgery diagnosed splenic torsion, leading to splenectomy.
- Histopathology confirmed splenitis, and the cat's anemia resolved post-surgery.
Implications:
- This case highlights splenic torsion as a novel differential diagnosis in cats with splenomegaly and abnormal splenic blood flow.
- Further research is needed to understand the underlying causes and predisposing factors of splenic torsion in felines.
