Patient
Chelsea, 9 year old female spayed Dalmation.

Presenting Complaint
Gaining weight for previous two weeks.  The referring veterinarian had diagnosed fluid in the thorax (hydrothorax) and abdomen (ascites).  Fluid (1,300 ml) of fluid was withdrawn from the chest.  The fluid was diagnosed as a modified transudate, containing white blood cells and reactive mesothelial cells.  Biopsies were recommended as a possible diagnosis was a mesothelioma, usallly a terminal cancer of the lining of the chest and abdomen.

Endoscopic Technique
Three 5-mm holes were used with one being used for a laparoscope that examined both the thorax (thoracoscopy) and abdomen (laparoscopy).  The other two openings were used for trocars to pass a biopsy forceps.  Approximately 20 biopsies were taken.  The diagnosis was a mesothelioma.

Benefits of using endoscopy
Excellent examination of both body cavities was performed with minimal invasion.  Multiple biopsies were selected from the most abnormal areas.  Since current chemotherapy usually has only modest benefit, the minimal nature of this surgery did not further reduce the quality of life and permitted the owner options for saying "good-bye".

View the Case