Species: Dog
Condition: Chylothorax
Organ System: Respiratory
It is a condition brought about by the accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the dog’s chest cavity. The problem’s main culprit is chyle, a digestive fluid produced in the small intestine and transported by the thoracic duct to the veins. While being transported, chyle can leak into the chest cavity and accumulates, exerting excessive pressure on the chest and the major organs located inside the cavity. The Shiba Inu and Afghan hound are often predisposed to this health problem. The treatment regimen depends on the underlying cause. A pleural tap may be done to remove fluid from the chest and improve breathing.
Breeds exposed to Chylothorax – Research Reference
Pug Cross – (Hawkins et al. 2003)
Siberian Husky Cross – (Hawkins et al. 2003)
English Springer Spaniel Cross – (Hawkins et al. 2003)
Springer Spaniel Cross – (Hawkins et al. 2003)
English Springer Spaniel – (Hawkins et al. 2003)
Pug – (Hawkins et al. 2003)
Siberian Husky – (Hawkins et al. 2003)
Springer Spaniel – (Hawkins et al. 2003)
Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine
To learn more about Chylothorax or any other condition we invite you to search this website. Even better, pick up the phone and call your vet. Your vet knows your pet better than anyone else and is a fountain of information.
This information is accurate as at May 2014 and is subject to change without notice.
For Petmed Pet Health Insurance – pre-existing condition exclusion applies. Annual Benefit Limits and excess amounts vary based on pet health insurance plans.
