Emergência obstetrica em cadela braquicefalica com hernia diafragmatica crônica e erliquiose – relato de caso

Abstract

Obstetric emergencies pose a risk to the health and survival of both the mother and the offspring during pregnancy; therefore, factors that may predispose the female to dystocia must be previously analyzed and considered when planning parturition. This condition is particularly challenging in brachycephalic patients, as their anatomical conformation predisposes them to complications, especially respiratory ones, which further compromise their overall condition. Congenital diaphragmatic hernia is a rare condition in dogs that allows the displacement of abdominal organs into the thoracic cavity, impairing lung expansion and, consequently, overall respiratory capacity. Ehrlichiosis can cause severe hematological alterations, affecting oxygen transport, increasing the risk of bleeding, and suppressing the immune system. Given the combination of these aggravating factors, pregnancy becomes high-risk, requiring additional care for maternal health and the maintenance of offspring viability. The present study aimed to report the case of a pregnant Shih-Tzu diagnosed with congenital diaphragmatic hernia and ehrlichiosis. Following gestational monitoring and worsening of the general health condition, the dog underwent emergency cesarean section and ovariohysterectomy. Although the procedure ensured the mother’s survival, the puppies died a few days after birth. This case underscores the importance of pre-reproductive evaluation and an appropriate professional approach to obstetric emergencies in small animals.