Pulmonary artery dilation secondary to pulmonary hypertension in dog

Case report

Abstract

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) occurs in a variety of diseases and is characterized by increased pulmonary vascular pressure. This alteration may lead to hemodynamic overload of the pulmonary artery, right ventricle, and right atrium. As a consequence, cardiac remodeling and progressive structural damage may develop. This condition may be primary or, more commonly, secondary to cardiac, respiratory, or systemic diseases, presenting with nonspecific clinical signs that are generally related to the underlying disorder. The present study aims to report and discuss the case of a five-year-old male dog diagnosed with PH possibly associated with respiratory disease, without etiological confirmation. The animal was presented with pulmonary artery dilation and signs of right-sided heart failure, including ascites, jugular vein distension, occasional coughing, respiratory effort, and lethargy. The diagnosis was established based on clinical signs, physical examination, thoracic radiography, and echocardiography. The underlying cause was not identified, as the patient rapidly progressed to death due to cardiac arrest. This report highlights the importance of monitoring animals affected by PH and, whenever possible, identifying the underlying etiology in order to implement appropriate treatment, reduce the risk of complications, improve prognosis, and provide better quality of life for the patient.