Case Study

15_00087 Best S AV valve degeneration

A 12-year-old M Doberman Pinscher was presented for preoperative workup, as a neuter and dental were required. On auscultation a grade 2/6 murmur was present with no clinical signs of cardiac disease. Survey radiographs showed possible RA and LV enlargement. Systolic BP was normal (142).

A 12-year-old M Doberman Pinscher was presented for preoperative workup, as a neuter and dental were required. On auscultation a grade 2/6 murmur was present with no clinical signs of cardiac disease. Survey radiographs showed possible RA and LV enlargement. Systolic BP was normal (142).

Sonographic Differential Diagnosis

This is a case of AV-valve degeneration in a large dog (Doberman Pinschers over-represented).

Image Interpretation

This dog has moderately degenerated AV-valves. The anterior leaflet of the mitral valve is slightly prolapsing into the left atrium. Color Doppler reveals a mild mitral regurgitation.

DX

Mitral valve degeneration

Outcome

No medication is needed, but re-examination after three months is strongly recommended.

Comments

Even though it is at an early stage, this disease usually proceeds much faster in large breed dogs than in toy breeds. Even though DCM cannot be ruled out without Holter examination, it is unlikely based on the age of the dog (DCM would have caused clinical signs and death earlier).