Haemoabdomen in dogs: interpreting abdominal fluid
11-year-old Golden Retriever with sudden weakness, pale mucous membranes and abdominal distension. Ultrasound shows a cavitated splenic mass and free fluid. Dark red fluid is obtained by abdominocentesis.
| Parameter | Result | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| PCV (blood) | 24 % | 37–55 |
| PCV (effusion) | 21 % | — |
| Platelets on effusion smear | None seen | — |
| Fluid clotting in plain tube | Does not clot | — |
Which statement about this fluid is correct?
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A. As its PCV is similar to blood, the spleen or a vessel was probably punctured
Acute haemoabdomen has a PCV similar to blood. What identifies accidental puncture is that the sample clots and contains platelets, not the PCV value.
B. The absence of platelets indicates a sampling error
It is the other way round: platelets are consumed quickly in the cavity, so their absence supports haemorrhage that has been in the abdomen for some time.
C. Fluid cytology will reliably diagnose haemangiosarcoma
Haemangiosarcoma cells exfoliate poorly into effusions and are confused with reactive mesothelial cells. Diagnosis requires histopathology of the mass.
D. Its failure to clot and lack of platelets confirm haemorrhage that preceded the puncture
Correct. Blood in the cavity is defibrinated and platelets are consumed within a short time, so it no longer clots. Erythrophagia or haemosiderophages indicate longer-standing haemorrhage.
lightbulb Key takeaway
In older dogs with non-traumatic haemoabdomen, splenic haemangiosarcoma is the most common cause, although haematomas and other benign lesions also occur. Perform thoracic radiographs and echocardiography (right atrium) before splenectomy and do not rely on cytology for diagnosis.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.