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Spontaneous aortic dissecting hematoma in two dogs
Theresa Marie Boulineau1, Lydia Andrews-Jones, William Van Alstine
1New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania, Kennett Square, PA 19348-1692, USA.
Summary
Two young Border Collies experienced spontaneous aortic dissecting hematoma, a rare condition. Histology revealed elastin dysplasia, similar to human Marfan syndrome, suggesting a potential genetic link in canine aortic disease.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Cardiovascular Science
- Canine Genetics
Background:
- Spontaneous aortic dissecting hematoma is a rare cardiovascular event in dogs.
- Border Collies and crossbreds are predisposed to certain genetic conditions.
- Marfan syndrome in humans involves aortic abnormalities due to connective tissue defects.
Observation:
- Two cases of fatal aortic dissecting hematoma in young Border Collies are presented.
- Clinical signs included sudden death and seizures.
- Gross lesions involved pericardial tamponade, thoracic hemorrhage, and aortic dissection.
Findings:
- Histopathology of one case revealed aortic dissection with unusual splitting of aortic wall elastin.
- This finding is consistent with elastin dysplasia, a condition analogous to that seen in human Marfan syndrome.
- Additional histologic lesions included intimal proliferation in the axillary artery.
Implications:
- Elastin dysplasia may be a significant factor in spontaneous aortic dissection in susceptible dog breeds.
- This finding warrants further investigation into genetic predispositions for aortic disease in Border Collies.
- Understanding these mechanisms can aid in diagnosing and potentially managing aortic pathologies in canines.