BCSE Small Animal Internal Medicine 3

Question 1

A 12-year-old cat presents with progressive dyspnea. Thoracocentesis yields a chylous effusion. Which underlying condition is most commonly associated with chylothorax in cats?

Accepted Answer

Cardiac disease (especially cardiomyopathy)

Answer

Cardiac disease, particularly hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, is the most common identifiable cause of chylothorax in cats due to elevated venous pressures.

Question 2

A dog with a known seizure disorder is presented for breakthrough seizures despite therapeutic phenobarbital levels. Which additional anticonvulsant is most commonly added as adjunctive therapy in dogs?

Accepted Answer

Potassium bromide

Answer

Potassium bromide is the most established second-line anticonvulsant in dogs, with a different mechanism than phenobarbital and well-documented efficacy.

Question 3

Which finding on a transtracheal wash or bronchoalveolar lavage is most consistent with eosinophilic bronchopneumopathy in a dog?

Accepted Answer

Greater than 25% eosinophils on cytology

Answer

Eosinophilic bronchopneumopathy is characterized by eosinophilic airway inflammation, typically >25% eosinophils on BAL cytology.

Question 4

A 5-year-old Miniature Schnauzer presents with recurrent pancreatitis and marked hypertriglyceridemia. What is the most appropriate long-term dietary management?

Accepted Answer

Strict low-fat diet with less than 10% fat on dry matter basis

Answer

A strict low-fat diet reduces dietary triglyceride absorption and decreases the risk of hyperlipidemia-induced pancreatitis in predisposed breeds.

Question 5

A 7-year-old DSH cat with chronic vomiting and weight loss has a PLI within normal limits but shows small intestinal wall thickening on ultrasound with loss of layering. The most likely diagnosis is:

Accepted Answer

Alimentary lymphoma

Answer

Loss of normal intestinal wall layering on ultrasound in a middle-aged to older cat with chronic GI signs strongly suggests alimentary lymphoma.

BCSE - Basic and Clinical Sciences Examination Practice Test

BCSE - Basic and Clinical Sciences Examination Practice Test

BCSE Small Animal Internal Medicine 3