Persistent truncus arteriosus in a cat

J Vet Cardiol. 2007 May;9(1):43-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jvc.2005.06.001. Epub 2007 Apr 6.

Abstract

A 5-month-old male domestic cat presented with a history of rapid, heavy breathing and cyanosis after exercise. Physical examination showed an abnormal respiratory pattern with an increased rate and stress-induced cyanosis. Auscultation revealed tachycardia and a grade 5/6 systolic murmur best heard over the left base. Radiographs showed evidence of right atrial and ventricular enlargement with distended pulmonary vessels and an enlarged ascending aorta. An echocardiographic examination revealed a dilated right atrium, eccentric right ventricular hypertrophy and an overriding aorta associated with a large ventricular septal defect (VSD). The pulmonary trunk could not be identified by echocardiography. Doppler and saline contrast studies showed large right-to-left shunting through the VSD. These findings were compatible with persistent truncus arteriosus, which was confirmed at necropsy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cat Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Cats
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Echocardiography / veterinary
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Male
  • Radiography
  • Truncus Arteriosus, Persistent / diagnostic imaging
  • Truncus Arteriosus, Persistent / veterinary*