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Pericardial Effusion in Dogs

Pericardial Effusion


               Pericardial effusion is an uncommon condition in which fluid builds up within the thin sac or membrane surrounding the heart known as the pericardium.  This can be a very serious condition. Let’s learn more about the causes and treatment of this problems in dogs.

               Fluid buildup around the heart constricts the heart and it is unable to pump oxygenated blood around the body.  If fluid builds up slowly, dogs may just seem lethargic or weak but collapse, trouble breathing and pale gums are more common.  Fluid around the heart can be fatal.

               Conditions causing pericardial effusion include bleeding into the pericardium secondary to a bleeding tumor such as hemangiosarcoma, a tear in the chamber of the heart or ingestion of rat poisons that affect blood clotting.  Clear fluid may also build up around the heart secondary to congestive heart failure, inflammation of the pericardium, autoimmune diseases or protein losing conditions causing very low albumin levels.  In rare cases, pus from a heart infection or migrating foreign body like a porcupine quill can build up around the heart. Many cases of pericardial effusion have no discernable cause and are termed idiopathic.

               Pericardial effusion is an emergency and must be treated immediately.  Effusion may be suspected based on signs and if the heart sounds dull when listening with a stethoscope, but it will be confirmed by looking at the heart with an ultrasound probe.  In most cases, the patient needs to be stabilized by draining the fluid from the pericardial sac.  Patients may also need oxygen, IV fluids and medications. The dog will be lightly sedated, and a needle or catheter is inserted into the space between the pericardium and heart to drain the fluid allowing the heart to pump more efficiently again. Once stabilized, the underlying issue causing the fluid buildup needs to be addressed.  A hemangiosarcoma tumor which is a type of aggressive cancer holds a poor prognosis as, in most cases, it cannot be removed and will continue to bleed.  With idiopathic or other causes of pericardial effusion, dogs may have a surgical procedure in which a piece of the pericardium is removed allowing any fluid that continues to accumulate to drain out preventing constriction of the heart. 

               The prognosis for pericardial effusion is poor.  The underlying causes are often serious and may not be able to be controlled long term.  However, about half of the cases of idiopathic pericardial effusion resolve with treatment and do not recur.  Seek veterinary care immediately if your dog collapses or has other symptoms of pericardial effusion.

               This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/pericardial-effusion-in-dogs

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=10920268



              

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