Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Bilirubin-like crystals found in dog's heart fluid buildup
By Chan, Shu Min & Beeston, Dave·Published in Veterinary Record Case Reports·2025·Willows Veterinary Centre and Referral Services, Shirley Solihull UK, United Kingdom·View original on Crossref →
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Original publication title: Presumed elevation in bilirubin concentration in a canine pericardial effusion with cytological evidence of haematoidin crystals
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A 6-year-old male neutered cocker spaniel was brought to the vet because he had fluid around his heart (pericardial effusion), which was causing breathing difficulties and swelling in his abdomen (ascites). Tests on the fluid revealed the presence of crystals that are believed to indicate a long-standing issue. These crystals, called haematoidin, can suggest that the fluid buildup has been there for a while. The dog’s condition highlights the importance of examining pericardial fluid to understand the underlying issues better.
People also search for: dog pericardial effusion symptoms · cocker spaniel heart problems · haematoidin crystals in dogs
Abstract
AbstractA 6‐year‐old, male, neutered cocker spaniel was presented for further workup of a pericardial effusion with associated cardiac tamponade and ascites. Cytological examination of the pericardial effusion noted the presence of what appeared to be bilirubin crystals. Evaluation of the pericardial fluid by a clinical pathologist identified the crystals to be haematoidin crystals. This case report describes the finding of haematoidin crystals in pericardial effusion, which may potentially be used as an indicator for the chronicity of a pericardial effusion.
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Search related cases →Original publication on Crossref: https://doi.org/10.1002/vrc2.70111