Presenting and publishing this case serves two purposes:
Case presentation of the urinary stones image and the potential presence of gall bladder sediments, both of which are radiologically intriguing.
The systematic and organized assessment and scanning of radiology images hold significant importance.
Assessing and scanning radiology images in a systematic and organized manner is important.
While the abdominal radiograph is the primary area of interest, with easily visible and identifiable uroliths corresponding to the animal’s clinical symptoms (hematuria), it is crucial to also consider the presence of abnormal radiographic signs in other anatomical regions. This includes the possibility of gall bladder sediments, ulna bone fracture, and knee arthritis. Therefore, the evaluation of the entire radiograph and the possibility of additional lesions should not be overlooked.
Radiographs should always be meticulously scanned and assessed centimeter by centimeter, from top to bottom and from side to side, focusing on each organ individually. It is imperative to remember to thoroughly examine and scan the rest of the image beyond the prominent lesion. This is essential because there may be other lesions of lesser or even greater importance.
Case Presentation:
Patient: 7-year-old female guinea pig,
Presenting Complaint: Hematuria, suspected urinary stones
Modality: *Radiology
Images: Radiographic study consists of the abdomen in lateral and VD views.
Findings
Upon reviewing the radiographs, the following observations were made:
Note:
- Parts of the front limbs are included and it seems there is a complete fracture of the forearm bones (Red Arrow).
- There is evidence of stifle joint disease (Osteoarthrosis) (Green Arrowhead)
- Radiograph is not diagnostic for the lumbar vertebrae and thoracic cavity.
Diagnosis and Conclusion:
Based on the radiographic findings, the following diagnoses and conclusions can be made:
- Urinary bladder urolithiasis.
- Suspected sediments in the gallbladder.
- Suspected fracture of the forearm bones.
Recommendations:
Radiography of the front limbs must be done.
Radiography of the thorax and lumbar vertebrae is recommended.
To further evaluate and confirm the suspected findings, ultrasonography of the abdomen with a specific focus on the liver, gallbladder, and urinary system is suggested.
Ultrasonography will provide detailed information regarding the nature, extent, and potential complications associated with urinary bladder stones and the presence of sediments in the gallbladder.
Alireza Ghadiri
Professor, DVM, DVSc
Board-Certified Veterinary Radiologist