Pneumopericardium associated with blunt trauma in a dog

Abstract

AbstractPneumopericardium due to blunt trauma in the thorax is rarely described in veterinary literature. The pathogenetic mechanism of pneumopericardium is not always clear. In the present case, a 15‐year‐old dog was referred by the local veterinarian due to walking disability after a fall from height of 2 m. The dog was paralysed in pelvic limbs with increased spinal reflexes, compatible with thoracolumbar syndrome. Plain radiographs of the thorax revealed pneumopericardium. The dog was monitored during hospitalisation for signs of respiratory distress. It remained asymptomatic, so pericardiocentesis was not performed. Computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging was recommended for diagnosis of the thoracolumbar syndrome, but owners declined for financial reasons. The dog was discharged 10 days after admission. The last day of hospitalisation thoracic radiographs revealed resorption of pneumopericardium. In conclusion, the aim of this study was to describe a case of incidentally found pneumopericardium that is rarely reported after a blunt trauma.