Computed tomographic characterisation and surgical management of a caudal mediastinal paraoesophageal abscess with associated pneumonia in a dog

Abstract

An 8‐year‐old, entire, male German shorthaired pointer presented with acute respiratory distress, pyrexia and coughing following a period of boarding. Thoracic radiographs identified a caudal mediastinal mass effect with severe multilobar bronchopneumonia. Computed tomography (CT) further characterised an encapsulated, peripherally enhancing, fluid‐ and gas‐filled lesion within the caudal mediastinum, closely associated with the right caudal lung lobe. Median sternotomy was performed for abscess drainage and resection of the right caudal and accessory lung lobes due to extensive fibrous adhesions. Anaerobic culture yielded Bacteroides pyogenes , and histopathology confirmed chronic neutrophilic pneumonia and pleuritis without evidence of neoplasia or foreign material. The dog recovered uneventfully and was clinically normal at 7 weeks postoperatively. This case demonstrates the value of CT in defining lesion extent and guiding surgical planning and supports aggressive surgical management despite severe concurrent pulmonary disease.