Today’s case is a 12-year-old domestic long-haired cat with decreased appetite and lethargy. This one is subtle. Does anyone see the abnormality?
Findings
On the lateral projections, there is gas superimposed over the gallbladder. The gas bubbles are faintly visible on the v/d projection lateral to the spine. The liver is moderately enlarged. The ascending colon is filled with fecal material, and the descending colon is empty. The remainder of the gastrointestinal tract is normal. No abnormalities are seen in the urinary tract. The spleen is moderately enlarged.
Differential Diagnosis
The hepatomegaly with focal gas collection may indicate an inflammatory process such as cholangiohepatitis, or a liver abscess. Ultrasound is recommended to further assess the abnormalities.
Diagnosis
On ultrasound examination, gas was identified in the bile duct and biliary tree. No liver abscesses were identified. The cat improved with medical therapy and the gas began to resolve.