Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
British Bulldogs fainting when swallowing due to carotid body tumors
By Phan, A et al.·Published in Australian veterinary journal·2013·Advanced Vetcare, Australia·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Syncope associated with swallowing in two British Bulldogs with unilateral carotid body tumours.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
Two British Bulldogs experienced fainting spells (syncope) when they ate, drank, or pulled on their leashes. After undergoing advanced imaging tests, veterinarians found carotid body tumors in both dogs, which were causing these episodes. One dog also had a mass near the heart. This case highlights the importance of thorough neck examinations and imaging for dogs that faint while swallowing. With proper diagnosis, veterinarians can better manage these conditions.
People also search for: dog fainting while eating · British Bulldog swallowing problems · carotid body tumor in dogs treatment
Abstract
Carotid body tumours were diagnosed in two British Bulldogs that each had a history of syncopal episodes induced by eating, drinking or pulling on the leash. In both dogs, a cervical mass was identified using computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging, with carotid body tumour (CBT) being the histopathological diagnosis. A heart base mass was also identified in one dog by both CT and echocardiography. Swallowing syncope has been reported in the human literature in association with cervical mass lesions, but this is the first report in dogs. The present cases emphasise the value of advanced imaging of the head and neck in dogs presenting with clinical signs of syncope associated with swallowing and the importance of careful manipulation of the neck in patients with CBTs.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23356372/