Dog fluids in thoracic cavity, renal function deteriorating

[maritrini]

Our 5 yr old mixed breed(half collie) was not eating.  Xrays showed fluid in thoracic cavity, no albumina, low white blood cells.  Started IV & 2 types of antibiotics.  Inserted tube in thorax to drain fluids, so far some of the drainage measured 45, 37, 15, 12, 52, 5cc or mm.  Awaiting pathology test to determine if surgery req. & type of surgery.  Creatinine increasing, white blood cells increased, now they decreased. She (dog) is still alert. Xrays show decrease in fluid now, though not completely clear.  Why is creatinine (1.7, 3.0, 5.1)and bun (20, 27, 56)higher?  What could be causing renal failure?  Suspect lymphatic tube may be discharging this white substance in chest cavity.  Can this be cured? By surgery? Will this require open heart surgery?  If second theory, perforated esophagus is correct, could surgery correct this?  What would be survival chances?  We would like to know if a cure is foreseable or what are the chances, if any.

[Jaybay]

I am so very sorry that you lost your dog - and at such a young age.  You certainly did everything you could, and at least she didn't suffer long, if much at all.  :-(

[Aleda M Cheng, D.V.M., C.V.A]

I am am very saddened by your loss!  

[maritrini]

Renal failure was irreversible and our dog died this morning. Thanks for your reply and your support. Our dog will be missed by all who knew her.

[Aleda M Cheng, D.V.M., C.V.A]

All of the treatment's and procedure's carry risks but due to the severity of the disease, but, whatever the risks it is better than the alternative of doing nothing.  

If the esophagus has a large perforation,  than surgery is warrented.  The alternative of leaving the rent open is a death sentence.  There probably will be fluctuations in the creatinine levels and levels of other blood values until this problem is taken care of.  While your dog is on IV fluid therapy the integrity of the renal system should be protected at least until a diagnosis is made.  

Since we don't know the cause of this problem I am unable to give you a prognosis or cure rate.  Fluid in the chest could be secondary to the esophageal perforation, aspirate pneumonia, heart or liver disease, and other causes.  There are just so many possibilities.  Please keep me informed as information comes in and I may be able to help more.  Thanks and I am so sorry about your dog!