Computed Tomography Imaging in Canine Thoracic Disorders: A Review of 30 Cases

Abstract

Thoracic diseases in dogs comprise a diverse group of conditions affecting the lungs, pleura, esophagus, and congenital thoracic structures, often requiring advanced diagnostic imaging for accurate evaluation. Computed tomography (CT), with its ability to generate high-resolution cross-sectional images, facilitates improved visualization and characterization of intrathoracic structures. The present investigation was carried out on 30 dogs exhibiting clinical signs indicative of thoracic disorders during the year 2025. All cases were initially screened using thoracic radiography, and those with ambiguous or inconclusive radiographic findings were further subjected to CT examination for detailed assessment of pulmonary, pleural, mediastinal, and vascular components. Systematic evaluation of CT images revealed a variety of thoracic abnormalities, among which pulmonary metastasis was the most predominant lesion (13/30; 43.33%), observed across multiple breeds. Esophageal granuloma was identified in 8 cases (26.67%), followed by pleural effusion in 4 cases (13.33%). Additionally, one case each of persistent right aortic arch (3.33%) and peritoneal pericardial diaphragmatic hernia (3.33%) were recorded. CT imaging enabled precise localization as well as detailed characterization of these lesions. In conclusion, while thoracic radiography remains a useful preliminary screening modality, computed tomography provides superior diagnostic clarity in cases with equivocal radiographic findings and serves as an effective tool for comprehensive evaluation of thoracic abnormalities in dogs.