Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Mesenteric lymphangiography helped diagnose chylothorax
By Cruz, A M et al.·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·1995·Department of Veterinary Anesthesiology, Canada·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Use of mesenteric lymphangiography in a calf with chylothorax and chyloperitoneum.
- Species:
- cattle
Plain-English summary
A 6-day-old calf was brought to the vet because it couldn't suckle and had a swollen belly. Tests showed that there was a blockage in the lymphatic system causing fluid buildup in the abdomen and chest. The vet drained the excess fluid, which helped the calf recover. For calves with similar issues, it's often best to try draining the fluid and providing supportive care before considering surgery.
People also search for: calf abdominal swelling treatment · why is my calf not suckling · chylothorax in calves treatment
Abstract
Lymphatic abnormalities resulting in chylous effusion into a body cavity are uncommon in domestic animals. In a 6-day-old calf admitted to our hospital because of failure to suckle and abdominal distention, however, mesenteric lymphangiography revealed an obstruction of lymphatic flow. Laparoscopic examination of the abdomen was unsuccessful. Fluid accumulation was resolved in this calf by drainage. In cattle with chylothorax and concurrent chyloperitoneum in which a traumatic lesion of the thoracic duct is possible, conservative management, with drainage and supportive treatment, should be attempted prior to considering surgical intervention.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7775235/