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Restrictive expiratory dyspnea in a cat with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: case report

ABSTRACT

Interstitial lung diseases are a group of diffuse parenchymal lung diseases in which interstitial lung fibrosis is included. Histologically, it is characterized by type II pneumocyte hyperplasia, hypertrophy or hyperplasia of smooth tissue and fibrosis. Although the pathogenesis of interstitial lung fibrosis has not been elucidated, due to the microscopic similarities found in type II pneumocytes in cats and familial form of the disease in humans, it is believed that there is a genetic trait for development. The frequently reported clinical signs include respiratory distress, cyanosis, lethargy, and weight loss. Due to the progressive nature and the absence of specific treatment, the disease has a poor prognosis. A 12-year-old cat with dyspnea for 20 days was assisted. The animal underwent fine needle aspiration of lung tissue and died few hours after the procedure, with acute respiratory failure. Upon histological examination of lung tissue, the occurrence of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis was found. The aim of this study is to report a case of restrictive expiratory dyspnea in a domestic feline due to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, because, according to our knowledge, there is no report on the occurrence of the disease in our country.

Keywords:
crackle; interstitial lung diseases; type II pneumocytes

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