CHF Secondary to Mitral Valve Disease

A 14 year old female spayed mix breed canine presented to Advanced Veterinary Care Center for coughing, lethargy, and a decreased appetite. Physical examination revealed a heart rate of 150 beats per minute as well as a grade III/VI left apical systolic murmur. The patient was breathing heavily at 60 breaths per minute and crackles were heard on auscultation. Her mucous membranes were cyanotic (blue in color) and her capillary refill time was prolonged.

Given these findings, congestive heart failure was suspected and radiographs were taken. The radiographs revealed the presence of pulmonary edema, or congestive heart failure. The patient was treated with oxygen, injections of Furosemide (a diuretic), oral Hydralazine, and topical Nitroglycerin. When the patient improved a complete echocardiogram was performed. The echocardiogram revealed severe mitral valve degeneration and regurgitation of blood flow. Her heart was enlarged. Blood work showed that her kidney function remained normal. The patient recovered and was discharged 5 days after presentation on oral heart medications.