Hemoabdomen (hemoperitoneum) in dogs can develop in association with abdominal trauma, splenic disease, a bleeding abdominal mass or nodule, abdominal organ torsion, and coagulopathy. In the absence of trauma, the most common cause of spontaneous hemoperitoneum in dogs is malignant neoplasia of the spleen. Hemangiosarcoma is the most common of tumors identified in these circumstances.

Surgery is usually indicated in instances of hemoperitoneum associated with splenic disease (malignant or non-malignant). Hemangiosarcoma (and other malignant tumors) typically carry a poor longterm prognosis. As such, owners may elect euthanasia rather than pursuing surgery in dogs suspected of having a malignancy. Benign conditions of the spleen (e.g. hematoma), presumably carry a more favorable prognosis.

In this Specialty Update we learn about the findings of a publication that reported on the incidence of premature death following splenectomy in dogs with benign histopathologic findings. Discussion includes risk factors for premature death, considerations around the preoperative and postoperative management of patients, and other tips for managing patients with hemoabdomen. 

Running time: 26 mins

*No longer eligible for CE credit*