PERICARDITIS 75 



Symptoms. Mild cases of pericarditis present, as a rule, 

 no symptoms by which an accurate diagnosis can be made. 

 In the more severe forms, fever is usually present, but the 

 elevation of temperature depends as much upon the primary 

 disease as upon the pericarditis present. Temperature is 

 usually 103-104 F. The respirations are increased, espe- 

 cially when the animal is moved, the slightest exertion causing 

 a marked dyspnea. Palpation over the cardiac region often 

 reveals a distinct fremitus from the pericardial folds rubbing 

 together. 



Auscultation. The friction sound due to the rubbing 

 together of the pericardial surfaces is distinctly audible, and 

 is the most important diagnostic symptom. The examiner 

 is greatly aided by the phonendoscope, which brings out the 

 friction sounds more prominently compensating for their 

 indistinctness due to the rapid heart beat. 



As the disease advances, the heart action becomes inter- 

 fered with, and all the symptoms of valvular insufficiency 

 will present themselves. Dropsical conditions from defective 

 arterial tension will be in evidence, especially ascites, and 

 dropsy of the extremities. There are general symptoms of 

 impaired appetite, emaciation and general weakness. Death 

 may occur suddenly or the condition become chronic and 

 last for weeks, depending very largely upon the cause. 



Diagnosis. An accurate diagnosis in small animals presents 

 some difficulties, and a thorough examination is always 

 necessary. The frictional tones are characteristic, but they 

 are determinable only in the acute fibrinous pericarditis. 



Prognosis. In the milder cases of acute fibrinous peri- 

 carditis and serofibrinous pericarditis the prognosis while 

 favorable, should always be guarded at least until the 

 etiological factor can be established. Other forms are always 

 to be considered unfavorable. 



Treatment. Hygienic. The animal should be placed 

 where there is absolute quiet. Prevent excitement, such as 

 by the visits of the owner, or strangers. Have the room 

 moderately warm and well ventilated. 



Dietetic. Nutritious food (lean meat, raw or cooked ; milk, 

 etc.) should be given to maintain the general condition of the 

 animal. 



