Stella
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Radiographic Report
Radiographic interpretation:The radiographs confirmed generalized cardiomegaly (VHS = 12.6) and mild left atrial enlargement (VLAS = 2.9). There is evidence of a moderately severe mixed interstitial pattern in the caudal dorsal region which is worse on the right caudal region on the DV projections. There is also evidence of venous distension. The left atrial enlargement could be contributing to compression of the left mainstem bronchus and the cough. Generalized tracheal collapse cannot be ruled-out.
Radiographic diagnosis: These findings support a diagnostic of left sided congestive heart failure (cardiogenic pulmonary edema). The cough maybe multifactorial.
Clinical interpretation/additional case information: Treatment for congestive heart failure is indicated.
Clinical History
Signalment: 9 year old FS Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (CKCS)
Clinical history: Stella has had an intermittent cough for the last couple of months, but three days ago it became significantly worse. Stella was diagnosed with Stage B1 MMVD 1 year ago and is currently receiving no cardiac medications. The owners note the cough is “honking and ends with retching sometimes”. The owner started Benadryl yesterday based on the advice of another veterinarian and they feel the coughing may be somewhat improved. Stella has received monthly Frontline and has been receiving Heartgard but did not receive it the past couple of months. She is fed 1 cup a day of grain-inclusive adult dog food and is on a weight management program. On admission, Stella’s TPR is 101.8 F/120 bpm/60 breaths per minute. Her BCS was 7/9 and she is quiet, alert and responsive. On auscultation, there is a grade IV/VI left apical murmur. Her lung sounds are increased bilaterally but no crackles or wheezes present. A cough can be elicited from palpating the trachea.