Heart base tumors in French Bulldogs: a case series

Heart base tumors (HBTs) including chemodectomas are common in dogs, especially in brachycephalic breeds. These tumors are often incidental findings but can also lead to clinical signs from vascular obstruction, tumor invasion, pericardial effusion, or metastasis. This retrospective study describes clinical and imaging findings of HBTs in 32 French Bulldogs.

A review of medical records focused on French Bulldogs diagnosed with HBTs (April 2019 to October 2022) was conducted. Cases were divided into two groups: dogs with incidental HBTs (group 1) and dogs with clinical signs associated with HBTs (group 2). Collected data focused on clinical features and available diagnostic imaging.

In group 1 dogs (n = 14), HBT was diagnosed incidentally; meanwhile, clinical signs in group 2 dogs (n = 18) included respiratory difficulties, syncope, and ascites with various combinations of serous cavity effusions evident in 13 dogs. Echocardiography of group 2 dogs frequently identified tumors obstructing the pulmonary trunk or its main branches. Some tumors invaded the atria. Median heart rate (138 vs. 156/mins), right atrial diameter (22.0 vs. 31.5 mm), and right ventricular-to-right atrial systolic pressure gradient (48 vs. 83 mm hg) were higher in the subset of group 2 dogs where these variables were measured (all P<0.05).

The retrospective nature and absence of histopathology to confirm tumor type and autopsy findings are major limitations of the study.

Heart base tumors in French Bulldogs can vary in clinical presentation, severity, and imaging features. These tumors often cause vascular obstruction, tissue invasion, and cavitary effusions.