Chapter 34 - Pleural space

Question 1

How much fluid must be present in the pleural space of a medium dog before widening of interlobar fissures becomes visible?

a) 50ml
b) 80ml
c) 100ml
d) 150ml

Answer 1

c) 100ml

Question 2

What position is most likely to cause border effacement of the heart in dogs with pleural effusion?

a) Dorsoventral
b) Ventrodorsal
c) Left lateral
d) Right lateral

Answer 2

a) Dorsoventral

Due to fluid moving ventrally, will also have greater opacity of thorax due to greater fluid depth

Question 3

On CT, what HU of pleural effusion in dogs is more likely transudate or chylous effusion?

a) <8 HU
b) <14 HU
c) <21 HU
d) <35 HU

Answer 3

b) <14 HU

<14HU more likely transudate or chylous effusion
>14HU more likely exudate, modified transudate or haemorrhage

Question 4

In cats, which is more commonly the cause of pleural effusion?

a) Left sided congestive heart failure
b) Right sided congestive heart failure
c) Pericardial effusion
d) Pulmonary oedema

Answer 4

a) Left sided congestive heart failure

More likely right sided congestive heart failure or pericardial effusion in dogs

Question 5

If there is only a small amount of pleural effusion, which position is the least likely to allow interlobar fissures to be seen?

a) Dorsoventral
b) Ventrodorsal
c) Left lateral
d) Right lateral

Answer 5

a) Dorsoventral

Question 6

Name 7 radiographic signs of free pleural fluid.

Answer 6

Question 7

Name 3 radiographic signs of pneumothorax.

Answer 7

Question 8

Which is the most common metastatic neoplasia to the pleura?

a) Lymphoma
b) Osteosarcoma
c) Mast cell tumour
d) Pulmonary carcinoma

Answer 8

d) Pulmonary carcinoma

Question 9

The most common primary neoplasm of the pleura is…?

a) Mesothelioma
b) Lymphoma
c) Sarcoma
d) Carcinoma

Answer 9

a) Mesothelioma

Question 10

Name the 5 causes of ‘elevated’ heart from the sternum.

Answer 10

• Pneumothorax
• Hypovolaemia
• Decreased heart size
• Normal dogs with extremely deep thoracic cavity
• Hyperinflated lungs