Case Study

Gastritis, enteritis and ileus in a 2 year old MN Boston Terrier dog

A 2-year-old MN Boston Terrier dog was presented for vomiting and diarrhea. Abnormalities on CBC and serum chemistry were hemoconcentration, mild thrombocytopenia, and mildly elevated ALT activity. Snap CPL ELISA was normal. Survey radiographs revealed stacking of the small intestine. The pet was treated with SQ fluids, antacids, an antiemetic, and the owner instructed to limit water intake and withhold food for 24 hours. The pet continued to vomit overnight and on repeat radiographs a gas filled stomach and small intestines were evident.

A 2-year-old MN Boston Terrier dog was presented for vomiting and diarrhea. Abnormalities on CBC and serum chemistry were hemoconcentration, mild thrombocytopenia, and mildly elevated ALT activity. Snap CPL ELISA was normal. Survey radiographs revealed stacking of the small intestine. The pet was treated with SQ fluids, antacids, an antiemetic, and the owner instructed to limit water intake and withhold food for 24 hours. The pet continued to vomit overnight and on repeat radiographs a gas filled stomach and small intestines were evident. Exploratory laparotomy was negative for foreign bodies but the stomach wall was thickened. Biopsies were taken of the stomach and small intestine. Post surgery the dog’s abdomen appeared distended and tense.

Sonographic Differential Diagnosis

Gastrointestinal ileus owing to inflammation, sepsis, systemic disease and hypovolemia, or intestinal obstruction owing to non visible foreign body or dysfunctional bowel.

Image Interpretation

Gastric and intestinal luminal dilation was evident consistent with inflammation and ileus. No foreign body was visible but dysfunctional bowel may be causing an obstructive pattern.

DX

Lympho-follicular gastritis, lympho-plasmacytic and eosinophilic enteritis with mucosal edema.

Outcome

Biopsies revealed moderate lympho-follicular gastritis and mild to moderate lympho-plasmacytic and eosinophilic enteritis with mucosal edema and congestion. The dog was treated with IV fluids, cefazolin, buprenex, famotidine, Reglan, and metronidazole. Repeat CBC showed leukocytosis. Another abdominal exploratory and anastomosis was performed. Post surgery the dog’s appetite returned and the stools started to normalize. Ongoing treatment was amoxicillin, famotidine, Reglan, metronidazole, and a low residue diet. A week later the owner reported that the dog was doing well.