Utility and limitations of postmortem computed tomography in animal abuse suspected cases: A case series study of cats

Objectives

Injuries caused by animal abuse are termed non-accidental injuries, and should be distinguished from accidental injuries. We compared postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) and necropsy findings in deceased cat bodies suspected of having been abused to determine whether findings previously reported to be associated with abuse or accident could be ascertained by necropsy or PMCT.

Materials and methods

Seven deceased cat bodies requested by the police for necropsy because of suspicion of animal abuse were used to compare necropsy and PMCT findings.

Results

PMCT revealed gas distribution abnormalities, such as pneumocephalus and pneumothorax, and bone lesions findings, such as cervical and pelvic fracture; however, several of these were not confirmed at necropsy. Findings such as liver contusion and injury to the posterior vena cava were confirmed only by necropsy and not by PMCT. Findings related to animal abuse, i.e., ocular injuries, skull, bilateral rib, and femoral fractures were confirmed by both PMCT and necropsy in 3, 5, 2, and 2 cats, respectively. Pneumothorax, pelvic fracture, and sacroiliac luxation, related to accidents, were confirmed only by CT in 6 of 6, 1 of 4, and 2 of 2 bodies.

Conclusion

PMCT revealed gas- and some bone-related findings more efficiently than necropsy, and a combination of PMCT and necropsy is recommended to perform, particularly if the death circumstances is unknown.