Nocardial peritonitis in a cat |
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Authors: | S L TILGNER S I ANSTEY |
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Institution: | Hume Animal Hospital, PO Box 50, Lavington, New South Wales 2641 |
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Abstract: | Objective To illustrate a successfully managed case of nocardial peritonitis in a cat. Design Case report. Animal An 8 year old neutered male Burmese cat presented for nonspecific signs of depression, anorexia, pallor and mild dehydration. Pyrexia, loss of weight and abdominal distension developed despite treatment with amoxycillin-clavulanate and supportive therapy. Procedure Various medical and surgical procedures were used. Results Haematology revealed severe inflammatory left shift. Biochemistry showed mild prerenal azotemia. A "ground glass" appearance to the abdomen was seen on radiographs. Fluid collected by abdominocentesis contained "sulphur granules" and had characteristics of a septic exudate. Laparotomy allowed drainage of peritoneal fluid and extensive lavage of the peritoneal cavity. Culture of the fluid revealed Nocardia sp. Sensitivity testing resulted in a change of antimicrobial therapy to trimethoprim-sulphadiazine. Conclusion Response to surgical drainage and change in antibacterial therapy was excellent. No toxic side effects were encountered during the 3 months course of trimethoprim-sulphonamide. The cat made a complete recovery. |
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Keywords: | Nocardia peritonitis cat |
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