Ultrasonographic diagnosis of septic arthritis secondary to porcupine quill migration in a dog

Abstract

A 7-year-old castrated male German Shepherd Dog was evaluated for lethargy, icterus, and sepsis. Porcupine quills had been removed from the dog's face 1 month prior to examination; progressive right forelimb lameness had developed soon after removal of the quills. Septic arthritis of the right elbow joint was diagnosed and was unresponsive to antimicrobial and antiinflammatory treatments. At the time of referral, the dog had developed endocarditis, septicemia, and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Via ultrasonography, a foreign body consistent with a porcupine quill was detected in the medial portion of the right humeroradial joint. The dog did not respond to initial supportive treatment and died as a result of cardiac arrest. Postmortem examination confirmed the presence of a quill in the medial compartment of the right elbow joint and severe acute endocarditis with septic emboli to the kidneys and spleen. Ultrasonographic examination should be considered as a diagnostic tool when septic arthritis secondary to a foreign body is suspected in dogs.