Intestinal lymphangiectasia in a Dachshund dog
Case report
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31533/pubvet.v19n12e1879Keywords:
Duodenitis, hypoproteinemia, snow flakesAbstract
Intestinal lymphangiectasia (IL) is a heterogeneous syndrome characterized by dilation and rupture of lymphatic vessels, with subsequent leakage of lymphatic contents such as proteins, lymphocytes, and chylomicrons into the intestinal lumen. IL may manifest primarily, due to structural abnormalities of the lymphatic vessels related to genetic factors, or secondarily, due to conditions that lead to obstruction of lymphatic flow. Yorkshire Terriers, Shar-Peis, Rottweilers, and Lundehunds appear to be the most frequently affected breeds, while the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier is known to present the hereditary form of the disease. Affected dogs commonly exhibit diarrhea, vomiting, anorexia, progressive weight loss, and may also develop cavitary effusions. The present report aims to describe the clinical and pathological aspects, as well as the diagnostic and therapeutic approach applied to a patient with intestinal lymphangiectasia. A 6-year-old female Dachshund was examined with a history of recurrent vomiting and diarrhea throughout the year. On physical examination, the patient presented with sarcopenia, a distended abdomen with abundant free fluid, abdominal pain, alopecic areas, and a dull coat. Complementary tests, including a complete blood count and serum biochemistry, revealed hypoproteinemia and hypertriglyceridemia. An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy with mucosal biopsy was performed and revealed markedly congested, granular mucosa with whitish speckles “snow flakes”. Histopathology indicated moderate lymphoplasmacytic erosive duodenitis with evidence of edema and moderate, multifocal lymphangiectasia. Initial therapy for the patient included prednisolone at a loading dose (3 mg/kg BID), later tapered to a minimal effective dose (0.25 mg/kg every 72 hours), along with vitamin supplementation and a low-fat diet. Based on the findings, it is concluded that obtaining a definitive diagnosis is essential for the appropriate formulation of a therapeutic protocol and, consequently, for achieving clinical improvement in affected patients.
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