Occurrence of Peritoneopericardial Diaphragmatic Hernia and Occult Spina Bifida in a Weimaraner

Introduction
Peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia (ppDH) is the most frequent congenital abnormality of the pericardium. it has been suggested that Weimaraners are predis- posed (1). it is often associated with defects of the abdominal wall, sternum or cardiac congenital anomalies (2,3).

Clinical case
A 2-year-old male entire Weimaraner presented with acute onset of unproductive vom- iting and abdominal distension. Based on physical examination, a gastric dilatation and volvulus syndrome was suspected. after initial stabilization, a lateral abdominal radiog- raphy was taken. the radiograph showed severe accumulation of gas in the stomach and intestines, with no sign of gastric compartimentalization. However, there was a cir- cular gas opacity within the caudal aspect of the pericardial sac that was a continuation of the stomach. in the thoracic vertebrae, doubling of the spinous process was noted for t1, t2, t3 and possibly t4. the ventrodorsal view confirmed spina bifida. a ppDH with herniation of the stomach was diagnosed. thoracic ultrasonography revealed that at least part of the liver was also herniated. Emergency surgery was performed and the defect corrected.

Results and conclusion
This is the first report of the coexistence of a ppDH and spina bifida. ppDH is thought to occur from an abnormal development of the septum transversus or a failure of the pleu- roperitoneal membranes to fuse during embryogenesis (2,3). other congenital defects have been associated (cardiac, sternal or abdominal wall anomalies) and they are thought to develop secondary to a defect at the same time during embryogenesis (2,3). it is possible that spina bifida could be associated with the presence of ppDH in this case. as a conclusion, it is important to evaluate animals diagnosed with ppDH for the presence of other possible congenital anomalies.