Ultrasonographic findings of a rare case of splenic rupture and torsion in a dog

Abstract A 7‐year‐old dog presented with acute lethargy, anorexia and vomiting. Ultrasonographic examination revealed a hypoechoic mass lesion in the left abdomen, characterised by a hilum‐like structure and intraparenchymal gas. A mild amount of hyperechoic peritoneal effusion was present. An apparently normal spleen was visualised, which was not associated with the described mass lesion. Surgery revealed a presumed previously ruptured and separated spleen. The caudal portion of the spleen was acutely torsed and there was a mild amount of peritoneal fluid present. Histopathology confirmed splenic torsion of the previously ruptured and separated caudal splenic segment. Bacterial culture of the peritoneal effusion after enrichment indicated Staphylococcus aureus . The patient recovered successfully and maintained excellent clinical conditions at 14‐month follow‐up. Splenic torsion of a ruptured splenic segment should be considered as a differential diagnosis for an emphysematous mass containing a hilum‐like structure in the abdomen in dogs.