Interpretation of Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid Findings (Planned by VCRS)

Lower respiratory tract diseases of dogs and cats pose a major diagnostic challenge. There is often considerable overlap in clinical signs and radiographic findings between the top differential diagnoses for a given patient. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is a minimally invasive procedure for obtaining material from the small airways, alveoli and, in some cases, the interstitium. Retrieved fluid is routinely analyzed cytologically and by aerobic culture.  Additional tests can be considered, as indicated for the individual patient. Examples of additional tests include gram and acid-fast staining of cytological preparations, PCR testing for infectious agents, microbiota analysis, and measurement of biomarkers of specific diseases. In this session, consideration will be given to factors that influence results of BAL fluid cytology and culture, clinical interpretation of findings, and indications for and limitations of additional testing options.

• Upon completion, participant will be able to explain how variations in BAL performance and fluid handling can affect the interpretation of cytologic findings.


• Upon completion, participant will be able to interpret cytologic and microbiologic results from BAL fluid analysis in the context of common clinical presentations.


• Upon completion, participant will be able to describe additional testing options for BAL fluid beyond routine cytology and culture, and their potential clinical applications.