Theses and Dissertations
Variation in the sonographic appearance of the liver in cats with lymphomatous hepatic infiltration.
Advisor
Lee, Alison
Committee Member
Seitz, Marc
Committee Member
Thomason, John
Date of Degree
5-15-2026
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
College of Veterinary Medicine
Abstract
Lymphoma is the most diagnosed neoplasm in domestic cats, and abdominal ultrasound is often included as a component of the diagnostic plan. The aim of this study was to determine if changes in sonographic appearance of the liver as well as the presence of free fluid, lymphadenopathy, and splenic abnormalities increase the likelihood of diagnosis of lymphomatous hepatic infiltration in cats diagnosed with lymphoma. Fifty-eight cats were enrolled in this combined retrospective and prospective study, 22 with lymphomatous infiltration in the liver and 36 without. In the current population hypoechogenicity, heterogeneous echotexture, hepatomegaly, and the presence of nodules within the liver were associated with lymphoma within the liver. Abnormal sonographic appearance of the spleen was also associated with hepatic involvement. Sampling of the liver in cats with a clinical suspicion of lymphoma and sonographic findings including a hypoechoic and/or heterogenous and/or enlarged liver, the presence of liver nodules, and/or an abnormal spleen is recommended.
Sponsorship (Optional)
ORGS Internal Grant
Recommended Citation
Sturkie, Charlee, "Variation in the sonographic appearance of the liver in cats with lymphomatous hepatic infiltration." (2026). Theses and Dissertations. 6988.
https://scholarsjunction.msstate.edu/td/6988
