Diagnosis of chronic gastric instability using computed tomography in a Great Dane that progressed to gastric dilatation and volvulus: a literature review and case report

Identification of Genetic Susceptibility Factors Associated with Canine Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus

Canine gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) is a common life-threatening condition occurring primarily in large and giant breeds with a 3.9% to 36.7% lifetime risk. The genetic correlates of GDV have not previously been systematically explored. We undertook an inter-breed genome-wide association analysis (GWAS) of 253 dogs from ten breeds including 106 healthy dogs and 147 dogs with at least one GDV episode. SNP array genotyping followed by imputation was conducted on 241 samples to identify GDV-associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and copy number variations (CNVs). A subset of 33 dogs (15 healthy dogs and 18 GDV patients from the three most represented breeds) was characterized by whole genome sequencing (WGS). After genome-wide Bonferroni correction, we identified a significant putatively protective intergenic SNP (rs851737064) across all breeds. The signal was most significant in Collies, German Shorthaired Pointers, and Great Danes. Subsequent focused analysis across these three breeds identified 12 significant additional putatively protective or deleterious SNPs. Notable significant SNPs included those occurring in genes involved in gastric tone and motility including VHL, NALCN, and PRKCZ. These data provide important new clues to canine GDV risk factors and facilitate generation of hypotheses regarding the genetic and molecular underpinnings this syndrome.

CT findings in dogs with gastric malposition: 6 cases (2016-2019)

OBJECTIVES

To describe the computed tomographic (CT) findings of gastric malposition in a group of dogs with suspected chronic gastric instability.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A multicentre retrospective study of CT studies of dogs with abnormal gastric position in the absence of clinical signs referable to gastric dilatation and volvulus.

RESULTS

Gastric malposition was identified in six dogs as either an incidental finding or in dogs with histories of chronic and intermittent gastroenteropathy. Gastric malposition was similar in all six cases; the pyloric canal was positioned in the left cranial abdomen in close proximity to the cardia and the pyloric antrum was found either to the left or ventral to the fundus.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Recognition of gastric malposition as an incidental or chronic finding may prevent unnecessary emergency intervention on patients presenting for unrelated conditions.