Section: Overview
Gastrointestinal ulcerations are inflammatory lesions that extend into the deeper layers of the gastrointestinal tract, going beyond the mucosa (lining). They need to be differentiated from erosions, which are more superficial and involve only the mucosa.
Causes
Drugs
Metabolic disease
Stress
Major medical illness
Foreign objects
Neoplasia (cancer)
Gastroenteritis - gastrointestinal inflammation
Lead poisoning
Helicobacter pylori bacteria
What to Watch For
Vomiting, with or without blood
Melena, black, tarry stool that contains digested blood
Abdominal pain
Lack of appetite
Pale gums
Weakness
Collapse
Shock
Sudden death
Diagnosis
Various tests are necessary to determine if an ulcer is present and the effects of the ulcer on the body. Tests may include:
A complete blood cell count (CBC), biochemical profile, and urinalysis should be performed in all cases.
Screening abdominal radiographs, although often within normal limits, may support the diagnosis of an ulcer secondary to a mass or foreign body.
Abdominal ultrasound may detect associated masses or changes associated with ulceration, however the test generally does not identify gastrointestinal ulceration itself.
A contrast upper GI study with barium may identify ulcers.
Gastroduodenal endoscopy is the most definitive means of diagnosing gastrointestinal ulceration.
Treatment
Individuals with gastrointestinal ulceration may be treated as outpatients if there are minimal signs, no systemic effects, and especially if there is a known cause that can be removed immediately. Specific treatments may include:
Restriction of all oral intake if there is active vomiting
An easily digestible diet slowly reintroduced as frequent small feedings
Avoidance of all gastric irritants like aspirin
Acid blocking and stomach coating drugs
In severe cases, hospitalization for intravenous fluid therapy and possibly blood transfusions
Home Care and Prevention
Administer all medication and dietary recommendations as directed by your veterinarian. If your dog becomes weak or pale, collapses, or vomits blood, seek veterinary attention at once.
Avoid gastric (stomach) irritants and stressful situations. If an underlying disorder has been diagnosed, treat your dog as directed, so as to prevent the onset of secondary ulcers.
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