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Ascites

The patient initially presented for an echocardiogram due to a heart murmur found during a routine wellness exam. An echocardiogram revealed a ventral septal defect. At a 4-month recheck echo, the patient was experiencing lethargy and labored breathing. Medications at that time were enalapril and furosemide. At a follow up echo a little over 4 months later, the patient presented again for labored breathing and continued lethargy. A few days prior, the patient had undergone a thoracocentesis in which a large amount of clear pleural effusion was aspirated from the chest. Current medications were vetmedin, furosemide, and clopidogrel.

A 9-year-old MN DSH was presented for evaluation of ascites. On physical examination a distended abdomen and weight loss was evident. Fluid analysis revealed a moderate neutrophilic exudate - suspected bacterial sepsis. CBC showed neutrophilia, monocytosis, and mild anemia whereas serum chemistry was within normal limits.