Idiopathic eosinophilic masses of the gastrointestinal tract in dogs.

BACKGROUND

Eosinophilic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract of dogs occurs in numerous disorders, typically resulting in diffuse intestinal thickening. Rarely, eosinophilic masses have been reported.

OBJECTIVE

Describe a series of dogs with 1 or more idiopathic eosinophilic gastrointestinal masses (IEGM) to better characterize the clinical features, treatment, and prognosis.

METHODS

Seven dogs with 1 or more gastrointestinal masses composed primarily of eosinophilic infiltrates for which no underlying cause was found.

METHODS

Retrospective case series.

RESULTS

Rottweilers and purebred, large breed dogs predominated. Dogs were middle-aged and typically had chronic signs of upper or lower gastrointestinal disease. Decreased appetite, vomiting, and evidence of gastrointestinal hemorrhage were present in the majority of cases. An abdominal or rectal mass was frequently noted on physical examination. Common laboratory abnormalities included peripheral eosinophilia, mature neutrophilia, hypoproteinemia, and hypocholesterolemia. The masses were histologically composed of moderate to severe eosinophilic infiltrates, which were often transmural and accompanied by fibrosis. All dogs treated with surgery alone died of complications of their disease. Treatment with corticosteroids and ivermectin improved clinical signs, caused resolution of eosinophilic infiltrates, and prolonged survival in most dogs treated medically.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the prognosis for dogs with IEGM may be good when recognized and managed appropriately. When surgery is performed, medical treatment should also be added.