Bronchoalveolar lavage affects computed tomographic and radiographic characteristics of the lungs in healthy dogs |
| |
| Authors: | Sohee Lim Suneui Sung Kyungjun Min Yechan Jung Youngkwon Cho Kichang Lee |
| |
| Institution: | 1. College of Veterinary Medicine, Chonbuk National University Specialized Campus, Iksan, Republic of Korea;2. Office of Research Management, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea;3. College of Health Sciences, Cheongju University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea |
| |
| Abstract: | Bronchoalveolar lavage is a common diagnostic test for dogs with suspected pulmonary disease, however there is no published information on whether this procedure could affect the imaging characteristics of the lungs. Aims of this prospective experimental study were to describe computed tomography (CT) and radiographic features of the lungs after bronchoalveolar lavage in a sample of healthy dogs. Thoracic CT and radiographic images of eight healthy Beagles were acquired at the following time points: before bronchoalveolar lavage, immediately following bronchoalveolar lavage, and at 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 h following bronchoalveolar lavage. Lung consolidation or interstitial patterns were seen in CT and radiographic images immediately after the procedure. Radiographic lung patterns resolved within 2 h and CT patterns resolved within 24 h. Resolution of the CT pulmonary patterns in the ventral areas of the lungs was delayed compared to the dorsal areas. Mean CT imaging scores differed over time (P < 0.001), while mean radiographic imaging scores did not differ over time. This study suggests that thoracic radiography and CT imaging assessments should precede bronchoalveolar lavage procedures if possible, or be performed at least 24 h afterward. |
| |
| Keywords: | airway fluid distribution fluid infusion pulmonary changes serial computed tomography scans |
|
|
