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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Canine pericardial effusion: diagnosis,treatment, and prognosis.

Journal:
Compendium (Yardley, PA)
Year:
2007
Authors:
Shaw, Scott P & Rush, John E
Affiliation:
Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University · United States
Species:
dog

Abstract

Most cases of pericardial effusion can be diagnosed with a thorough physical examination. Physical examination findings may include muffled heart sounds, pulsus paradoxus, and jugular venous distention. Radiographs may show a globoid cardiac silhouette. Echocardiography is reliable in diagnosing pericardial effusion. Pericardiocentesis is indicated for the emergency treatment of pericardial tamponade. Pericardiectomy may improve survival in some dogs. The prognosis varies greatly, depending on the underlying cause.

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Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17727047/