Radiography in dogs and cats

Radiography in dogs and cats

Generalized cardiomegaly is usually evident, although left-heart enlargement may predominate. Cardiomegaly may be severe enough to mimic the globoid cardiac silhouette typical of large pericardial effusions. In contrast, Doberman Pinschers and some Boxers appear to have mainly left atrial enlargement without marked cardiomegaly. The stage of disease, chest conformation, and hydration status influence these radiographic findings. Distended pulmonary veins and pulmonary interstitial or alveolar opacities, especially in the hilar and dorsocaudal regions, indicate the presence of left heart failure and pulmonary edema. Some dogs have asymmetric or widespread distribution of pulmonary edema infiltrates. Pleural effusial, distention of the caudal vena cava, hepatomegaly, and ascites usually accompany right-sided heart failure.

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