Temporary atrial standstill in a crossbred dog associated with bladder outlet obstruction

Abstract

A 6-year-old male crossbred dog was referred to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital of Islamic Azad University of Karaj with the history of abdominal distention, rectal tenesmus and stranguria. Abdominal radiographs and ultrasonography indicated large distended urinary bladder and prostatic enlargement. ECG showed temporary episodes of atrial standstill. The only abnormalities detected by serum biochemical analysis were mild uraemia and hyperkalaemia. The cause of hyperkalaemia and mild uraemia was postrenal azotaemia which was occurred as a consequence of bladder outlet obstruction secondary to prostatic enlargement. There was a good response to castration as a choice of treatment. Gradual improvement in the signs of rectal tenesmus and stranguria was observed over a period of three weeks following castration. Furthermore, ECG records during post-surgical period were normal.