Aspectos imaginológicos da hepatite e colecistite enfisematosa em cão - relato de caso

Abstract

Emphysematous hepatitis and cholecystitis are rare conditions with high mortality rates in both veterinary and human medicine. Predisposing factors include diabetes mellitus and pre-existing liver diseases. The objective of this report is to present a case of a dog diagnosed with emphysematous hepatitis and cholecystitis, attended at the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Uberlândia. The animal had a history of coughing and continuous use of corticosteroids, accompanied by polyuria, polydipsia, and polyphagia. Radiographic examination revealed gaseous content superimposed on the hepatic parenchyma and gallbladder. Ultrasonographic evaluation showed a hyperechoic hepatic parenchyma with increased dimensions and heterogeneous echotexture with multifocal hyperechoic interfaces. The gallbladder displayed thickened walls and slight intraluminal gaseous content, along with peritoneal effusion and reactive mesentery, raising suspicion of gallbladder rupture. This diagnosis was confirmed during exploratory laparotomy, during which the patient succumbed. Culture and antibiogram identified a multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli. Diagnosing this condition is challenging due to subtle and nonspecific clinical signs when present. A thorough evaluation of imaging exams is crucial, as they can provide critical findings for patient management. Finally, the report highlights the increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant bacterial strains.