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*

You might also like

The Vet Med Collective - Challenging Conversations And Intense Emotional Interactions

11/12/2025

Join us in a VetVine Thrive lunchtime conversation - a safe space dedicated to supporting the wellbe...

Read More

Improving The Quality Of Life For Cats With Chronic Kidney Disease

09/16/2025

To be available for viewing On Demand. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most common and c...

Read More

Canine Atopic Dermatitis - Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, And Treatment Of Mild Disease

08/12/2025

Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is one of the most frustrating and complex skin conditions encountere...

Read More

The Skinny On Pyoderma - The Most Common Bacterial Infection Of The Skin

08/05/2025

Pyoderma (bacterial skin infection) is one of the most common dermatologic conditions seen in compan...

Read More

Degenerative Mitral Valve Disease In Dogs - Diagnosis And Staging

05/06/2025

This presentation is the first of a 3-part series regarding our current understanding of mitral valv...

Read More

How To Establish THC Diagnosis In The Emergency Room

09/14/2021

Across the United States, local jurisdictions are revisiting historic prohibitions on the sale, poss...

Read More