CT findings of gall bladder rupture in two dogs with gall bladder mucocele

A miniature poodle and miniature schnauzer were referred for the investigation of shallow breathing and restless behaviour, and the investigation of bilious vomiting, diarrhoea, and the presence of a hepatic mass, respectively. In both cases, computed tomography revealed heterogeneous, hyperattenuating content within the gallbladder, a defect in the gallbladder wall, and leakage of biliary content into the perihepatic region compatible with gallbladder mucocele, rupture of the gallbladder, and bile peritonitis. Both dogs underwent a cholecystectomy and made uneventful recoveries. Follow-up was available for both dogs one and two months later which confirmed a return to good health. Computed tomography is a helpful aid in the pre-surgical diagnosis of gallbladder wall rupture and bile peritonitis in dogs.