Hepatic vein stenosis (Budd-Chiari syndrome) as a cause of ascites in a cat.

A 10-year-old cat presented with a history of unexplained ascites. Ultrasound and angiography identified an isolated stenosis of the middle hepatic vein resulting in Budd-Chiari Syndrome. Balloon dilation of the stenosis was attempted but the patient expired. Necropsy revealed a discrete membranous stenosis at the junction of the caudal vena cava and the middle hepatic vein. The literature was reviewed to assess clinical and diagnostic findings, as well as therapeutic options in humans with hepatic vein stenosis.