A Case of Canine Pheochromocytoma with Invasion into the Caudal vena Cava

Abstract

Abdominal ultrasonography of a 10-year-old male Shih Tzu dog with a history of hematuria revealed large right adrenal as well as hyperechogenic regions within the caudal vena cava. Clinical examination showed elevated plasma catecholamine concentration and hypertension accompanied by hemorrhage of the bilateral ocular fundi. These findings led to a strong suspicion of pheochromocytoma. The dog was subjected to adrenalectomy. At the same time, the metastatic mass was removed from the caudal vena cava. Subsequent histopathological examination clarified the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma originating from the adrenal medula. Given postoperative chemotherapy, the dog has remained in good condition for 17 months.