Pulmonary contusion in dogs and cats
Pulmonary contusion in dogs and cats is caused by blunt trauma and is a common finding in animals that have been hit by cars. Hemorrhage into the interstitium and alveoli occurs, usually in localized regions of the lungs. Pneumothorax, hemothorax, and rib fractures can also occur. Thoracic involvement should be considered in any animal with evidence of severe trauma, even if there are no external signs of trauma in that region of the body.
Historical or physical examination evidence of trauma is generally present in dogs and cats with pulmonary contusions. Although increased respiratory efforts may be noted, pneumothorax, pain from rib fractures, cardiovascular shock, or neurologic damage may also affect breathing patterns. Crackles may be auscultated over the contused areas.
Pulmonary contusions are diagnosed on the basis of evidence of trauma and the finding of typical radiographic signs, although the latter may not be evident until almost a day after trauma. Large localized ares of alveolar and interstitial opacities are seen in dogs and cats with pulmonary contusions.
Dogs and cats with pulmonary contusions receive treatment for trauma-related problems as indicated by clinical signs. The contusions themselves are not treated directly. Although antibiotics have been recommended to prevent infection in damaged tissue, they are more effectively used to treat animals that have developed actual signs of infection. It is recommended that radiographs be obtained periodically to monitor the resolution of abnormalities. The frequency of this depends on the severity of the initial abnormalities and the clinical signs. Complications that may arise in animals with pulmonary contusions include a secondary bacterial infection, abscesses, lung lobe consolidation, and cavity lesions.
The prognosis for recovery from pulmonary contusions is excellent, provided that the animal's condition can be stabilized after the trauma. The possible complications of contusions noted earlier are rare.
Historical or physical examination evidence of trauma is generally present in dogs and cats with pulmonary contusions. Although increased respiratory efforts may be noted, pneumothorax, pain from rib fractures, cardiovascular shock, or neurologic damage may also affect breathing patterns. Crackles may be auscultated over the contused areas.
Pulmonary contusions are diagnosed on the basis of evidence of trauma and the finding of typical radiographic signs, although the latter may not be evident until almost a day after trauma. Large localized ares of alveolar and interstitial opacities are seen in dogs and cats with pulmonary contusions.
Dogs and cats with pulmonary contusions receive treatment for trauma-related problems as indicated by clinical signs. The contusions themselves are not treated directly. Although antibiotics have been recommended to prevent infection in damaged tissue, they are more effectively used to treat animals that have developed actual signs of infection. It is recommended that radiographs be obtained periodically to monitor the resolution of abnormalities. The frequency of this depends on the severity of the initial abnormalities and the clinical signs. Complications that may arise in animals with pulmonary contusions include a secondary bacterial infection, abscesses, lung lobe consolidation, and cavity lesions.
The prognosis for recovery from pulmonary contusions is excellent, provided that the animal's condition can be stabilized after the trauma. The possible complications of contusions noted earlier are rare.
MORE VETERINARY ARTICLES
-
Enlargement of the liver | Hepatomegaly in dogs and cats Enlargement of the liver in dogs and cats may be the result of cardiac incompetenc...
-
Colitis in dogs have many causes (e.g., bacteria, diet , parasites ). The underlying cause is seldom diagnosed because this problem tends t...
-
Oral Pain 1. Fractured bones or teeth. 2. Trauma. 3. Periodontitis or caries (especially cats). 4. Osteomyelitis. 5. Other causes ...
-
The profile of the Golden Retriever may justify for you its reputation as a very good family pet. The Golden Retriever ranks the lowest of a...
-
The Afghan Hound is one of the most distinguished-looking breeds, which is no doubt the main reason people are attracted to it. The Afghan ...
-
1. Acetaminophen. 2. Antiarrythmics. 3. Anticonvulsants. 4. Antiinflammatories (nonsteroidal). 5. Barbiturates. 6. Benzocaine. 7. Chemothera...
-
Clinical features Bubonic, septicemic, and pneumonic plague develop in infected humans and cats; clinical disease is extremely rare in dogs....
-
Neoplasms originating from the larynx are uncommon in dogs and cats. More commonly, tumors originating in tissues adjacent to the larynx, su...
-
The Bulldog is well suited for the environment of the college fraternity, where it has enjoyed considerable success as a mascot. It ranks lo...
-
It is important to realize that dry pet foods, although better for your pet's dental health than soft-foods, do not effectively prevent ...