Hypertrophic gastritis in dogs: A comprehensive analysis

Hypertrophic gastritis is one of the lesser known but serious diseases in dogs that can have a significant impact on the health and quality of life of our pets.

Definition and introduction of hypertrophic gastritis in dogs

Hypertrophic gastritis is a special form of chronic gastritis in dogs in which there is significant thickening of the gastric mucosa and the formation of pronounced rugae. It is a rare disease whose etiology is often unclear, but in some cases can be attributed to long-standing inflammation, interstitial edema and cystic gland formations.

Hyperplasia of the rugae - what is it?

Hyperplasia of the rugae refers to an increased formation of cellular tissue in the folds of the stomach (rugae) and is a characteristic feature of hypertrophic gastritis in dogs. A more detailed explanation of rugae hyperplasia in dogs with hypertrophic gastritis is presented here.

What are Rugae?

The rugae are folds in the stomach wall that allow the stomach to expand and contract. They play a crucial role in the mechanics of digestion as they aid in the movement and mixing of stomach contents.

Hyperplasia of the rugae

With hyperplasia of the rugae, the cell tissue in these folds proliferates. This causes the stomach wall to thicken and can affect the normal functioning of the stomach. The hyperplasia may be distributed throughout the stomach or limited to specific areas such as the pyloric antrum or pylorus.

Effects on the dog

Hyperplasia of the rugae can cause various symptoms and complications in dogs. Thickening of the stomach wall can disrupt normal gastric emptying and limit gastric mobility. In severe cases, this can lead to vomiting, weight loss, anemia and other health problems.

Causes and treatment

Hyperplasia of the rugae can be caused by chronic inflammation, tumors, and other pathological conditions. The exact causes of hypertrophic gastritis and the associated hyperplasia of the rugae are often unclear and can be diverse.

Treatment for hyperplasia of the rugae is primarily aimed at treating the root cause and relieving symptoms. This may include drug therapy, surgical procedures, or dietary adjustments, depending on the severity and extent of the disease. In any case, early diagnosis and individualized treatment are crucial to ensure the animal's well-being.

Etiology of hypertrophic gastritis in dogs

The causes of hypertrophic gastritis are diverse and can be of a very different nature:

• Chronic inflammation and uremia : These can lead to the development of the disease in the long term.
• Hypergastrinemia : Long-term disturbances in gastric acid production and increased gastric pH can lead to increased gastrin production, which secondarily triggers hypertrophic gastritis.
• Tumor-induced gastritis : Tumors, particularly pancreatic tumors and mast cell tumors, can cause hypertrophic gastritis through the production of gastrin-like substances.

Clinical manifestations and symptoms of hypertrophic gastritis in dogs

Symptoms are often subtle and can be confused with other forms of chronic gastritis. Which includes:

• Vomit
• weight loss
• Hypoalbuminemia
• anemia

In advanced cases, gastric emptying disorders, gastric dilatation and morphological pyloric stenosis may occur.

Diagnosis and differential diagnoses of hypertrophic gastritis in dogs

An accurate diagnosis is essential and requires a thorough examination. Differential diagnoses include gastric tumors and other forms of chronic gastritis. Various examination methods such as ultrasound and endoscopy are helpful in making a correct diagnosis.

Detailed explanation of the diagnosis of hypertrophic gastritis in dogs

In order to diagnose hypertrophic gastritis in dogs and differentiate it from other gastrointestinal diseases, a series of diagnostic procedures and tests must be carried out. Diagnostics should be systematic and comprehensive in order to obtain an accurate picture of the disease and to ensure the best possible therapy.

1. Clinical examination of hypertrophic gastritis in dogs

First, the veterinarian conducts a thorough clinical examination, during which the medical history is recorded and the general condition of the animal is assessed. This can provide information about possible causes and the severity of the disease.

2. Blood test

A complete blood count and biochemical profile are important to identify inflammation, anemia, and other disorders that may be associated with hypertrophic gastritis. In addition, the gastrin level in the blood can be measured to detect hypergastrinemia.

3. Urinalysis

Urinalysis can help rule out or confirm renal dysfunction and uremia, which can lead to hypertrophic gastritis.

4. Imaging techniques

• Ultrasound examination : This allows visualization of the stomach wall and can reveal changes such as thickenings or tumors.
• X-rays : They can help identify obstructions, enlargements, and other abnormalities of the stomach.
• Endoscopy : This offers the opportunity to look directly at the lining of the stomach and allows biopsies to be taken for further examination.

5. Biopsy and histopathology

Tissue samples (biopsies) of the stomach collected during an endoscopy are examined microscopically to determine the type of cellular changes, the extent of inflammation, and the presence of tumors.

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6. Bacteriological examination

A culture of the stomach lining may be performed to determine the presence of bacterial infections that may contribute to gastritis.

Diploma

After a thorough history, clinical examination, and performing the above diagnostic tests, the veterinarian can make a diagnosis and create an appropriate treatment plan. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent disease progression and improve the dog's quality of life.

Therapeutic measures - hypertrophic gastritis in dogs

Therapy is primarily aimed at treating the underlying disease and symptom-based measures. In many cases, dietary measures and, if necessary, immunosuppressants such as prednisolone are indicated. In the presence of pyloric stenosis, surgical intervention is often necessary to remove obstructing mucosal folds.

Detailed explanation of the treatment options for hypertrophic gastritis in dogs

The treatment of hypertrophic gastritis in dogs depends largely on the cause of the disease and can vary accordingly. The focus is on alleviating the symptoms and, if possible, eliminating the causes.

Dietary measures

An important part of treatment is adjusting the dog's diet. A special diet containing easily digestible proteins and carbohydrates is often required. Low-fat, high-fiber, and hypoallergenic diets can help relieve symptoms and protect the gastrointestinal tract.

Medical therapy

In many cases, drug therapy may be necessary to control and treat symptoms. This includes:

• Immunosuppressants : Prednisolone may be given in specific doses to reduce inflammation. Dosage should be in accordance with veterinary recommendations and manufacturer information.
• Prokinetics : Medications such as metoclopramide can help with gastric emptying disorders by speeding up gastric emptying.
• Antibiotics : If a bacterial infection is proven, the use of antibiotics may be necessary.

small calculator to determine the correct amount of prednisolone

veterinarian will determine the final amount and medication !

In this example, a dosage of 0.5 mg prednisolone per kg body weight is used. Please note that the dosage must be determined individually by a veterinarian depending on the severity of the disease and the animal's state of health. It is important to follow the dosage and duration of treatment exactly as directed by the veterinarian to avoid side effects and complications.

Surgical interventions

If pyloric stenosis is present, surgical interventions are often unavoidable. Obstructing mucosal folds are removed and/or a pyloroplasty is performed to facilitate the outflow of stomach contents.

There are different surgical approaches to treating pyloric stenosis. The most common is laparoscopy, in which small incisions are made to insert an endoscope and open the pylorus. Another option is open surgery, in which a larger incision is made to gain direct access to the pylorus. The choice of procedure depends on the severity of the stenosis and the individual needs of the patient. After surgery, careful monitoring and follow-up care is important to avoid complications and support the healing process.

Supportive therapy

Additionally, supportive therapy measures such as fluid therapy and nutritional therapy may be necessary, especially if the dog is severely dehydrated or requires nutritional support.

Preventive action

Although hypertrophic gastritis is often triggered by internal factors, preventive measures such as a balanced diet, regular veterinary checks and avoiding stress can help reduce the risk of developing the disease.

Important information about medication

It is important to emphasize that the manufacturer's information should be followed when taking medication and the dosage instructions should not be exceeded to ensure the safety of the animal.

Summary of hypertrophic gastritis in dogs

Hypertrophic gastritis in dogs is a rare disease that affects the animals' stomachs. It is a form of chronic gastritis characterized by thickening of the stomach lining. Hypertrophic gastritis in dogs can have a variety of causes, including long-term inflammation, chronic edema, and the formation of cystic glandular formations.

Hypertrophic gastritis in dogs can cause various symptoms. The animals often suffer from vomiting, emaciation, hypoalbuminemia and anemia. Determining whether a dog has hypertrophic gastritis requires a thorough examination by a veterinarian . This includes blood tests, urinalysis, and imaging tests such as ultrasound and X-rays to rule out other diseases and confirm hypertrophic gastritis in dogs.

Diagnosing hypertrophic gastritis in dogs may also involve taking a biopsy of stomach tissue to evaluate the extent of inflammation and possible cellular changes. When hypertrophic gastritis is diagnosed in dogs, the underlying trigger must be treated. In some cases, this may require adjustment of diet, administration of immunosuppressants, or surgical removal of obstructing mucosal folds.

It is important to detect and treat hypertrophic gastritis in dogs early to prevent complications and further health problems. Hypertrophic gastritis in dogs can have a significant impact on the animals' lives and often requires long-term treatment and monitoring by the veterinarian. Without treatment, hypertrophic gastritis in dogs can lead to serious health problems and even death.

Hypertrophic gastritis in dogs can occur secondary to hypergastrinemia, and proper diagnosis is critical to ensure appropriate treatment. Pet owners who notice symptoms of hypertrophic gastritis in their dogs should seek immediate veterinary care. However, with proper care and treatment, dogs suffering from hypertrophic gastritis can live full and happy lives.

Overall, hypertrophic gastritis in dogs is a serious and complicated condition that requires comprehensive veterinary care. Early detection and intervention can help protect the animal's well-being and improve the quality of life of dogs with hypertrophic gastritis. It is essential not to hesitate and seek professional advice immediately if hypertrophic gastritis in dogs is suspected.

Literature and sources

Hans G. Nobody, Peter F. Suter, Barbara Kohn, Günter Schwarz (editors). Internship at the dog clinic . 11th, revised and expanded edition. Enke Publishing, 2012.