Chronic Enteropathy and Vitamins in Dogs

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Gastroenterology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Chronic enteropathy (CE) encompasses diverse etiologies causing persistent gastrointestinal signs like vomiting and diarrhea.
• Diagnosis involves histological confirmation after excluding other conditions, with inflammation in the intestinal mucosa.
• Nutritional management is crucial, impacting digestion, absorption, and barrier functions, with intestinal dysbiosis playing a potential role.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of chronic enteropathy (CE) in dogs.
• To discuss current treatment and nutritional management strategies for CE.
• To highlight the role of prognostic vitamins in CE management.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes existing literature on CE diagnosis, pathophysiology, and treatment.
• It examines the impact of nutritional management, including digestive and absorptive functions.
• The review specifically addresses the role of cobalamin (vitamin B12) and vitamin D in CE prognosis and treatment.

Main Results:

• Cobalamin (vitamin B12) and vitamin D are identified as negative prognostic factors in dogs with CE.
• Cobalamin supplementation has shown efficacy in reducing clinical disease severity.
• Vitamin D supplementation can ameliorate hypocalcemia and hypoalbuminemia in affected dogs.

Conclusions:

• CE requires a multi-faceted approach involving diagnosis, treatment, and tailored nutritional management.
• Vitamins B12 and D are critical for managing CE, influencing prognosis and clinical improvement.
• Further research into the specific roles and optimal supplementation strategies for these vitamins in CE is warranted.