dog with swollen spleen

Question
Two months ago my 11 year old dog had two epileptic seizures. We were told
to watch her (blood tests were done and found nothing wrong).  She did not
have any more after that.  However, a month later my dog's health started to
deteriorate and she stopped eating.  We took her back to the vet's and fond
that she had a urinary track infection.  She was put on antibiotics. She still
was not eating so we brought her back and it was determined that she would
have X-rays taken and more blood work done.  The X-rays were something I
continually asked about because I could see her abdomen seemed swollen
and felt hard (since the epileptic attack).  They kept saying that if there was
an obstruction she would be vomiting and they kept saying an X-ray was
unnecessary. This time the blood test came back that she was anemic and
also a bit jaundice.  Finally with an x-ray, they also found an enlarged spleen.  
They were going to give her steroids assuming it was a sort of anti-immune
disorder, but she suddenly deteriorated and died in the office. I believe that
this was due to the condition and the stress of the visits and tests. I keep
feeling that this was avoidable. I know that that is not a question, but I am
still not sure what happened. It all was so quick.  The doctor is sending me
information on the condition he believed she had. He was actually quite
good, but he came after a succession of young vets in a large established
office. I guess I would just like a second opinion. I know that questioning the
vets at this point is useless, but for my own peace of mind,  I would like a
second opinion or just more information.

Answer
Sharon -

I am sorry about the death of your dog. Unfortunately, I cannot give you a second opinion because I am not familiar with your dog's medical case.  I am assuming that a post mortem (necropsy) was not performed and a  post mortem would most likely give you an idea of what led to her death.


Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM