Splenic and pancreatic abscessation with vascular abnormalities in a dog

Abstract A 3‐year‐old male neutered Collie was presented with gastrointestinal signs, lethargy and weight loss, following a history of pancreatitis. Computed tomography revealed large, coalescing nodules in both the pancreas and spleen, and abdominal effusion. Analysis of effusion revealed degenerative neutrophils with intracellular bacteria. The patient underwent exploratory laparotomy. Partial pancreatectomy, splenectomy and drain placement were performed successfully. Post‐operative management included antibiotics, drain management, fluid therapy and supportive care. Gram staining of pancreatic tissue revealed clusters and short chains of Gram‐positive cocci; however, bacterial cultures of the peritoneal fluid and pancreatic tissue were negative. Histopathological examination confirmed severe suppurative acute pancreatitis with extensive interstitial fibrosis and vascular abnormalities in the spleen and pancreas. The dog recovered well from surgery and was alive at the time of publication with no evidence of recurrence.