Theses and Dissertations

ORCID

https://orcid.org/0009-0007-9038-4229

Advisor

Lee, Alison M.

Committee Member

Seitz, Marc A.

Committee Member

Fizzano, Kristen M.

Date of Degree

8-13-2024

Original embargo terms

Immediate Worldwide Access

Document Type

Graduate Thesis - Open Access

Major

Veterinary & Biomedical Science (Veterinary Medical Research)

Degree Name

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Veterinary Medicine

Department

Veterinary Medical Science Program

Abstract

A reticulonodular splenic pattern is commonly associated with neoplastic or infectious etiologies. However, this has been described as an age-related variant in both humans and dogs, likely representing lymphoid follicles. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the ultrasonographic appearance of the spleens of growing kittens mimics the canine presentation. This was a prospective, descriptive study design. Healthy kittens up to 18 months old were scanned using a high frequency linear transducer. A reticulonodular pattern was present in (89%) of spleens. After 4 months of age, there was an overall negative correlation with age and the grade of the imaged spleen, which persisted even amongst the kittens that were enrolled serially. The findings of this study suggest that a reticulonodular pattern in young cats and kittens may be a normal finding within this population.

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