Idiopathic Pericardial Effusion in Dogs - A three year study

Abstract

Out of 811 dogs referred to Veterinary Hospital Bhoiguda of Hyderabad, 28 dogs of various breed and sex were found positive for idiopathic pericardial effusion (IPE). Highest prevalence was noticed in male Labrador retriever of 7.5 yr. Exercise intolerance, dyspnoea at rest, weakness, ascites, cough, anorexia, pallor mucosa, cyanotic mucosa, syncope following exertion or exercise and peripheral edema were the clinical signs at the time of presentation. Low voltage QRS complexes with electrical alterans, enlarged globular heart were noticed. No significant changes except hypoechoic to anechoic (echo – free space) area between the epicardium and pericardium were noticed on echocardiography. Pericardiocentesis along with frusemide and ramipril was found efficacious in treating the IPE without any recurrence for six months.