Comprehensive radiological, ultrasonographic, and CT scan evaluation of unilateral ureterovesical junction (UVJ) stenosis in a ۴-year-old German Shepherd: a case report

Background: A survey was conducted on the ability of computed tomography (CT) to detect and evaluate various locations and stages of stenosis or obstruction in small animals. The study showed that CT is a highly effective imaging tool for diagnosing hydronephrosis, providing increased sensitivity and specificity. These results indicate that CT is essential alongside radiography and ultrasonography for the precise diagnosis and treatment of hydronephrosis. Methods: A ۴-year-old female German Shepherd, spayed, presented with abdominal distention and mild pain. Imaging modalities were used to diagnose the cause of the swelling. The study demonstrated that radiography, ultrasonography, and particularly CT are highly effective methods for evaluating the etiology and severity of hydronephrosis. These findings suggest that CT plays a crucial role in the accurate diagnosis and management of hydronephrosis. Results: Abdominal radiographs showed a soft tissue or fluid density area in the left cranial to caudal abdomen with mass effect on adjacent structures. Abdominal ultrasonography identified a large anechoic structure filled with fluid occupying the left cranial to caudal abdomen, displacing surrounding viscera with suspected renal origin. CT imaging revealed a distended left renal pelvis with severe hydronephrosis. There was no evidence of renal adhesions or invasion of adjacent tissues. Conclusion: In this report, using various imaging modalities, our differential diagnosis was directed toward ureterovesical junction (UVJ) stenosis. This case demonstrates the value of a systematic diagnostic imaging approach to achieve a precise diagnosis. The findings highlight that a systematic, multimodal imaging approach provides definitive diagnostic and prognostic information, enabling clinicians to determine the extent of parenchymal compromise, rule out alternative causes, and make evidence-based decisions regarding conservative, minimally invasive, or surgical management.

کلیدواژه ها:

Hydronephrosis ، CT scan ، Ultrasonography ، UVJ ، Nephrectomy