Archive Case #103: Canine Splenic Hemangiosarcoma

Clinical Clues

1. An older large-breed dog is rushed in after collapsing suddenly at home.
2. The owner reports the dog briefly improved and stood up again before becoming weak once more.
3. On examination the mucous membranes are pale and the abdomen is distended.
4. Ultrasound reveals free abdominal fluid and a splenic mass.
5. Abdominocentesis confirms hemoabdomen.
6. A malignant vascular tumour of the spleen commonly causes episodic collapse from internal bleeding in dogs.

Diagnosis

Canine Splenic Hemangiosarcoma

This case is most consistent with Canine Splenic Hemangiosarcoma because the dog has a splenic mass with hemoabdomen and waxing and waning collapse. The most important clues are the large-breed signalment and internal hemorrhage, which make a simple splenic hematoma less likely.

Educational Use

Vetdle archive cases are educational veterinary games for diagnostic reasoning practice. They do not provide veterinary advice, diagnosis, treatment, or professional medical guidance.