CT case report links grass awn migration to carotid injury in dog

A new case report in Veterinary Radiology & Ultrasound describes a 4-year-old Kerry Blue Terrier with a cervical mass caused by a migrating grass awn that led to esophageal perforation and erosion of the common carotid artery, with pseudoaneurysm formation. The authors report that contrast-enhanced CT was central to identifying the foreign body’s path, the associated soft-tissue changes, the esophageal injury, and the vascular complication before surgery. Histopathology later confirmed the grass awn as the penetrating foreign body, and the authors say this appears to be the first published canine report focused on CT findings for this combination of esophageal perforation, carotid erosion, and pseudoaneurysm caused by migrating plant material. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, the case is a reminder that migrating grass awns can present far beyond the respiratory tract or superficial soft tissues, and that a neck mass may conceal a life-threatening vascular injury. The report underscores the value of contrast-enhanced CT when dogs have suspected migrating foreign material, unexplained cervical swelling, or signs that don’t fit a simple abscess, because CT can help define the full extent of tissue migration and guide urgent surgical planning. Prior veterinary reports have documented other unusual grass awn migration patterns, including genitourinary and thoracic complications, reinforcing that these foreign bodies can travel unpredictably and cause severe secondary damage. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

What to watch: Watch for whether this case prompts broader discussion of earlier CT use in suspected migrating grass awn cases involving the cervical region, especially when vascular involvement is a concern. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)