Generalized Cardiomegaly

This refers to an overall enlargement of the heart. This enlargement can involve all chambers of the heart and can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions. Common symptoms can include coughing, dyspnea, exercise intolerance, increased respiratory rate or syncope.

The cardiac silhouette is considered normal in size and shape, if;

• No left and right heart enlargement is noted on the chest x-rays
• The VHS measures below 11 (dogs); 9 (cats)

The heart is considered generally enlarged, if;

• both left and right heart enlargement is present
• The VHS measures above 11.5 (dogs); 9 (cats)

This test will not be assessed in the following scenarios;

• Cannot adequately visualize the cardiac silhouette due to other pathology.

• Border effacement of the cardiac silhouette in the presence of significant pleural effusion.

• Severe rotation/obliquity of the radiograph