Clinical utility of liver biopsies in dogs undergoing splenectomy. (9th October 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Clarke, E.; Levien, A. S.; Bennett, R. A.; Perry, S.; Daniel, G.
• Is Part Of: Journal of small animal practice. Volume 61:Number 11(2020)
• Page Start: 684
• Page End: 688
• Publication Date: 2020-10-09
• Subjects: Veterinary medicine -- Periodicals; Veterinary Medicine -- Periodicals; 636.089
• DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13202
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-4510

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: To determine the prevalence of neoplasia detected on liver biopsy obtained at the time of splenectomy in dogs with splenic masses. Materials and Methods: Retrospective study of medical records of dogs with splenic masses from which liver biopsies were taken following splenectomy. Results: Malignant splenic neoplasia was detected in 50 of 113 (44.2%) of the dogs undergoing splenectomy. Neoplastic liver disease was detected on biopsy from 1 of 40 (2.5%) dogs with a grossly normal liver and from 20 of 69 (28.9%) dogs with a grossly abnormal liver. Dogs with a grossly abnormal liver had a ~ 16 times (95% CI: 2.5‐170) higher chance of being diagnosed with liver neoplasia on biopsy. Haemoabdomen was also associated with an increased likelihood of liver neoplasia on biopsy at the time of splenectomy. Clinical Significance: A liver biopsy taken from grossly normal liver is a low‐yield diagnostic test but liver biopsy is recommended following splenectomy if the liver appears abnormal at surgery.