Ultrasonographic findings of hepatobiliary changes in a feline with Platynosomum spp.

Abstract

Platinosomose is a parasite caused by the trematode Platynosomum spp., which accommodates the felines’ hepatobiliary system. As its clinical manifestations are nonspecific, complementary exams are indispensable for an effective diagnosis. This report aims to demonstrate the importance of diagnostic imaging, especially ultrasound as an important tool in detecting changes triggered by this parasite. A feline, male, mongrel, five years of age, weighing 2.55 kg, neutered, vaccinated only against rabies, delayed deworming, history of emesis, difficulty in defecating, colored and odorous urine. The liver parenchyma was distorted, showing heterogeneous echotexture. The gallbladder was enlarged with difficulty in delimitation, noting biliary duct dilations, with echogenic content, distant and irregular, with a characteristic of bile hypoperfusion, using intra and extrahepatic obstruction. Clinical therapy was instituted and a return was requested for a reassessment of animals that underwent necropsy with cholangitis, biliary tract evidently with ectasia being detected, and examples of Platynossomum spp.