The spleen is a large blood filter that removes red blood cells that are old, damaged, or are afflicted with parasites and other infectious agents. The spleen is attached to the stomach by a ligaments. It is a main support to the immune system.
Splenic torsion or twisting of spleen,is a condition in which the spleen is twisted around its blood vessels. This condition may occur by itself, or in association with gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) syndrome, when a dog’s air-filled stomach expands and twists on itself. It can occur suddenly, or it can gradually twist over a period of time.
It is a rare condition in dogs and most commonly happens in large and deep chested dogs like German shepherds, standard poodles and great Danes.
Symptoms of spleen torsion are:
Intermittent lack of appetite
Vomiting
Weight loss
Red to brown colored urine
Abdominal pain
Pale gums
Increased heart rate
Abdominal mass that can be felt
