Lung lobe torsion occurs when a lung lobe becomes twisted around the bronchus. The bronchus, located in the center of each lung, is the tubular structure that connects the lung to the trachea. The bronchus allows air to pass to and from the body. Lung lobe torsion is more commonly found in deep-chested dogs.

Symptoms include difficulty breathing, coughing, loss of appetite and vomiting.

Lung lobe torsion often seems to occur spontaneously with no apparent identifiable cause. However, it can be associated with trauma to the lung or lung ailments such as pleural effusion and chylothorax. Certain breeds, such as Afghan Hounds, appear predisposed to developing this condition.

Your vet will be able to make a diagnosis after performing a physical examination including diagnostic imaging techniques such as x-rays and ultrasound.

In order to treat lung lobe torsion, your vet will perform a lobectomy which is the surgical removal of the lung lobe.

There is no prevention for lung lobe torsion.

No, you cannot get lung lobe torsion from your dog.