Suspected spontaneous femoral artery rupture in an otherwise healthy American pit bull.

Abstract

A 1-year-old intact male American pit bull experienced a ruptured right femoral artery without trauma or coagulopathy. The dog was presented with right pelvic limb lameness and progressive subcutaneous swelling and bruising. Radiographs of the region identified soft-tissue swelling in the right thigh musculature. Bloodwork monitoring consisted of packed cell volume and total solids, which continued to decrease during hospitalization. A CT scan showed a non-contrast-enhancing possible mass effect in the region. Multiple blood and plasma transfusions were instituted while the dog was in hospital and in preparation for amputation of the limb due to concern for a neoplastic process. During surgery, upon removal of a blood clot, profuse hemorrhage from a branch of the femoral artery was noted. The artery was ligated and amputation completed without complication. After surgery, the packed cell volume returned to normal and no additional bruising was noted. Histopathologic examination of the amputated limb showed extensive subacute hemorrhage and hematoma formation. No evidence of neoplasia or inflammatory foci was noted. At a 2-week recheck, all bruising had resolved and the dog was walking well. Key clinical message: This case report describes the first diagnosis and treatment of a suspected spontaneous femoral artery rupture in veterinary medicine.