Generalized edema and chylothorax in a 5-year-old female intact chinchilla (chinchilla lanigera)

A 5-year-old female intact chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) presented with increased respiratory rate and effort. There was severe generalized subcutaneous edema more pronounced along the ventral aspect of the body. Diagnostic imaging revealed bicavitary effusion with a subsequent thoracentesis aspirate yielding a serous transudate. Treatment with diuretics improved clinical signs for several days; however, the chinchilla presented again in respiratory distress, at which time thoracentesis was performed and 30mL of chylous effusion was removed.
Source: Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine - Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Source Type: research