Idiopathic mesenteric abscess formation in a dog

Background: Mesenteric abscesses and suppurative lymphadenitis in dogs are rare but clinically significant causes of intra-abdominal masses and systemic illness. Clinical signs are often nonspecific, including lethargy, fever, anorexia, and abdominal discomfort, making early diagnosis challenging. Prompt recognition and surgical intervention are critical for favorable outcomes. Case Presentation: A ۷-year-old spayed mixed-breed female dog weighing ۱۸ kg presented with marked lethargy, high fever, and systemic inflammatory signs. Hematology revealed neutrophilic leukocytosis (WBC = ۳۰.۶ ×۱۰⁹/L, neutrophils = ۹۳ %) and thrombocytopenia (PLT = ۷۴ ×۱۰⁹/L). Abdominal ultrasonography showed a large (۵ × ۶ cm), cavitary, encapsulated heterogeneous mass in the right flank, adjacent to a jejunal loop with a distinct capsular blood supply. Neoplasia could not be ruled out, so exploratory laparotomy was recommended. Intraoperatively, a firm mass adherent to the right abdominal wall and the right lobe of pancreas with a jejunal mesenteric lesion were found. Segmental resection of the affected jejunal loop and end-to-end anastomosis were performed. Cytology and histopathology confirmed a purulent mesenteric abscess. Postoperative management included antibiotics and supportive care, resulting in complete recovery. Discussion and Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of including mesenteric abscess and suppurative lymphadenitis in differential diagnosis of intra-abdominal masses in dogs with systemic inflammation. Imaging modalities, including ultrasound and CT scan, are valuable for lesion characterization but cannot definitively distinguish abscess from neoplasia. Definitive diagnosis requires surgical exploration and histopathology. Surgical excision combined with appropriate antimicrobial therapy generally leads to favorable outcomes. Early recognition and timely surgical intervention are pivotal for successful prognosis.

کلیدواژه ها:

Dog ، Mesenteric abscess ، Suppurative lymphadenitis ، Exploratory laparotomy ، Case report