A rare case of renal eventration in a domestic cat

Abstract

This case report discusses a unique case of renal eventration in a cat resulting from a lumbar hernia possibly of traumatic origin. A two-year-old indoor/outdoor male neutered domestic shorthair was evaluated for a rapidly growing mass noted in the right lumbar region. Initial physical examination revealed a firm, circular and slightly mobile mass in the lumbar region, along with pain and tenderness on palpation. Abdominal ultrasound revealed muscle discontinuity in the lumbar region consistent with a hernia, with eventration of the right kidney possibly caused by abdominal trauma. A paralumbar celiotomy was performed over the area of increased volume, revealing the right kidney with a hematoma on its surface and partial rupture of the renal capsule. The muscular defect was identified, and the kidney replaced in its anatomical location. The patient recovered quickly and was discharged from hospital 46 h later, with no reported complications. Recheck 2 months post-operatively confirmed unremarkable biochemical assessment (creatinine, urea and USG within normal limits) and abdominal ultrasound findings, and 2 years post procedure the patient remained clinically well. This unusual case emphasizes the importance of including renal eventration in the differential diagnosis for acutely presenting masses in the lumbar region of cats.

Keywords: Herniation; Lumbar hernia; Renal eventration; Trauma.