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We have a wealth of experience in solving veterinary cardiology cases in small animals.

Cardiology is a clinical speciality that requires broad knowledge of multiple medical areas, as it is one of the most complex branches of medicine. This is why challenges often arise in day-to-day consultations, and a second opinion from a specialist is needed. To request a remote cardiology diagnosis, it is crucial to send the right documentation and carry out the appropriate tests.

Find out the keys to making a good diagnosis before referring a case.

  A Vetoclock cardiology report includes a study of all the preliminary tests that offer the data needed to make a diagnosis. Here, we will look at how to carry out a cardiology consultation properly. 

 In the words of our expert, Alexis Santana, first,”The patient’s medical history must be taken.” To do this, the following questions are recommended:   

    • Is the patient struggling to breathe? 
    • Does the patient cough at any particular moment? 
    • If the patient presents stunted growth compared to its siblings [OR] If the patient and its siblings present stunted growth, do the parents have a history of heart disease? 
    • Has the patient lost weight? What is the patient’s diet like? 
    • If the patient faints, how long has this been happening and how does it happen? 
    • Does the patient take any medication or have any diagnosed illnesses? 


       Secondly, once the medical history is complete, a full physical examination must be carried out. 

      • Colour of anterior and posterior mucosae. 
      • Presence of jugular venous distension or jugular venous pulse. 
      • Abdominal palpation. 
      • Cardiac auscultation. 
      • Respiratory auscultation. 
      • Femoral pulse palpation.


      Finally, depending on the differential diagnosis at hand, suitable tests must be selected. These are the most common ones: 

        •  If any alteration to the patient’s heart rhythm is detected, an electrocardiogram and electrolyte panel should be carried out. 
        •  If the patient presents respiratory problems, a cough, or alterations in the pulmonary auscultation, a chest X-ray (with three views) is needed. 
        •  Should a murmur be present during auscultation, the patient requires an ECG.. 
        •   If the patient presents cardiac syncope or arrhythmia compatible with illness, an ECG and 24-hour Holter monitoring test should be used. 
        • If the case involves exercise intolerance or weight loss, it will require a full laboratory examination, an ECG and a blood pressure test. 

       

      Selecting tests based on medical history and a physical examination will take your cardiology consultations to the next level. 

      Who will diagnose your cases of Veterinary Cardiology?

      Alexis Santana

      Jorge Prieto