Successful Surgical Case of Emphysematous Cholecystitis in a Dog

Abstract

A 12-year-old male mixed-bred dog was brought to the Animal Clinical Research Foundation with anorexia and depression. Radiographs showed a spherical gas-filled viscus, which accorded with the shape and position of the gallbladder. A tentative diagnosis of emphysematous cholecystitis was made, and treatment with antibiotics was initiated. Twenty-four hours later, the gas shadow had disappeared. As gallbladder perforation was suspected, an emergency laparotomy was performed. The gallbladder was found perforated, and there was leakage of bile. Microbiological examination showed Clostridium spp. in the ascites. Histopathologically, the disease was determined to be necrotized cholecystitis. No complications were observed after surgery, and the quality of life was drastically improved for the patient.