Signalment
- Age: 11 years
- Sex: male neutered
- Breed: Beagle X CKCS
- Species: dog
Disease Notes
- Certainty: confirmed
- Comments: In 2014 he had a cervical hemi-laminectomy for IVDD, which did not significantly improve his symptoms of neck pain. Since this time he has been managed with NSAIDs, tramadol and gabapentin when he experiences acute neck pain. This has only happened 3-4 times since 2014, and usually occurs during changeable weather. The most recent incidence of neck pain was a month ago when the weather was alternating between warm and cold.
On presentation, Moby was bright and happy. Moving fine, with no obvious sign of neck pain. On palpation, he had mild to moderate discomfort in his neck when moved in all directions. He also had bilateral hip pain. There was a nice sheen to the coat, but a very small amount of dry dander. He has good appetite, and is drinking, urinating, defaecating normally. However..., I am concerned that I can feel a firm, left sided, cranial abdominal mass (possibly spleen or liver).
Treatment and Outcome
Problem Notes
- Abdo Mass: Suspected abdominal mass palpated
- Hip Pain: Bilateral hip pain was detected on initial presentation
Notes:
Moby was seen at our practice by a colleague Veterinarian a few days ago. Moby had been quiet for a few days before coming to the practice. On presentation Moby was very weak, depressed and listless. In summary, in-house pathology showed marked hepatic enzyme elevation (ALT + ALP), hyperbilirubinaemia, marked WBC elevation and anaemia (HCT = 13). The presence of a cranial abdominal mass was confirmed. Given the Moby's age and poor prognosis the owners elected for euthanasia.
Note: no TCM herbs were administered at all, a single acupuncture treatment was all that was performed on the first examination (27.4.18). Moby did not return for further treatment. His next visit was 23.6.18, when he was euthanased.
Diet is largely canned or kibble