Lymphangiectasia

Lymphangiectasia is an intestinal disease of dogs, and more rarely humans, characterized by chronic diarrhea and loss of proteins such as serum albumin and globulin. It is considered to be a chronic form of protein-losing enteropathy.

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Cause

Biopsy of the small intestine shows dilation of the lacteals of the villi and distension of the lymphatic vessels.^[1] Reduced lymph flow leads to a malabsorption syndrome of the small intestine, especially of fat and fat-soluble vitamins. Rupture of the lymphatics causes protein loss into the intestines.

The most common cause of lymphangiectasia is congenital malformation of the lymphatics.^[2] Secondary lymphangiectasia may be caused by granulomas or cancer causing lymphatic obstruction, or increased central venous pressure (CVP) causing abnormal lymph drainage. Increased CVP can be caused by pericarditis or right-sided heart failure. Inflammatory bowel disease can also lead to inflammation of the lymphatics and lymphangiectasia through migration of inflammatory cells through the lymphatics.^[3]

Signs and symptoms

Chronic diarrhea is almost always seen with lymphangiectasia, but most other signs are linked to low blood protein levels (hypoproteinemia), which causes low oncotic pressure. These signs include ascites, pleural effusion, and edema of the limbs and trunk. Weight loss is seen with longterm disease.^[3]

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is through biopsy. The presence of hypoproteinemia, decreased blood lymphocytes, and decreased cholesterol support the diagnosis. Hypocalcaemia (low calcium) is also seen due to poor absorption of vitamin D and calcium, and secondary to low protein binding of calcium. Medical ultrasonography may show striations in the intestinal mucosa indicating dilated lacteals.^[4]

Treatment

Treatment is multifactorial. A diet very low in fat and high in high quality protein is essential.^[5] Treatment of humans can also involve the use of MCT (medium chain triglycerides) oil and/or the drug Octreotide. In dogs, fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) should be supplemented. Corticosteroid treatment may be required for life. Antibiotics can be used to treat bacterial overgrowth. With a very low serum albumin, transfusion with blood plasma or an infusion of hetastarch may be necessary to treat the signs until the diet can take effect.^[6] Lymphangiectasia is rarely cured but can remain in remission for a long time. It can be fatal when unresponsive to treatment.

Affected breeds

Breeds commonly affected by lymphangiectasia and/or protein-losing enteropathy include the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, Norwegian Lundehund, Basenji, and Yorkshire Terrier.^[7]

References