Hepatic abscesses in dogs: 14 cases (1982-1994)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Internal Medicine
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Hepatic abscesses are uncommon in dogs but mimic other inflammatory liver conditions.
• Early identification of clinical and clinicopathologic signs is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize clinical and clinicopathologic findings in dogs with hepatic abscesses.
• To evaluate treatment outcomes and the role of ultrasonography in diagnosis and monitoring.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of 14 dogs diagnosed with hepatic abscesses.
• Review of clinical signs, clinicopathologic data, radiography, and ultrasonography findings.
• Analysis of treatment protocols (medical and surgical) and outcomes.

Main Results:

• Common signs included anorexia, lethargy, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain.
• Hematologic findings showed leukocytosis and thrombocytopenia; biochemical tests revealed elevated liver enzymes and bilirubin.
• Ultrasonography identified abnormalities in all cases and was effective in monitoring treatment response.
• Common bacteria isolated included E. coli and Clostridium spp.; concurrent infections were frequent.
• Survival rates were higher with combined surgical and medical treatment (5/6) compared to medical alone (1/1) or no definitive treatment (0/7).

Conclusions:

• Hepatic abscesses in dogs share clinical and clinicopathologic features with other hepatic inflammatory diseases.
• Abdominal ultrasonography is a valuable tool for diagnosing hepatic abscesses and monitoring treatment efficacy.
• Successful treatment outcomes can be achieved with both medical and surgical interventions, particularly when combined.