What is bronchoalveolar lavage in a cat? - briefly
Bronchoalveolar lavage in a cat is a diagnostic procedure where a small amount of sterile fluid is introduced into the lungs and then retrieved to analyze cells and microorganisms for respiratory conditions.
What is bronchoalveolar lavage in a cat? - in detail
Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is a diagnostic procedure performed in cats to collect samples from the lower respiratory tract, specifically the bronchi and alveoli, for analysis. This technique is commonly used to evaluate respiratory conditions such as chronic cough, pneumonia, asthma, or suspected infections. During the procedure, the cat is placed under general anesthesia to ensure safety and minimize discomfort. A flexible endoscope or catheter is carefully passed through the trachea and into the airways. A small amount of sterile saline is then instilled into the bronchoalveolar region, which is subsequently aspirated back, along with cells, microorganisms, and other materials from the lung lining. The collected fluid is sent to a laboratory for cytological, microbiological, or biochemical analysis to identify the underlying cause of the respiratory issue. BAL is particularly valuable for detecting bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections, inflammatory conditions, or neoplastic processes. While the procedure is generally safe, it carries some risks, such as transient respiratory distress or complications related to anesthesia. Therefore, it is typically performed by a trained veterinarian in a controlled clinical setting. The results of bronchoalveolar lavage provide critical insights into the nature of the respiratory disease, guiding appropriate treatment and improving the cat’s prognosis.