Name
Clinical and pathological findings of six rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) with esophageal disorders.
Krista Keller
Description
Esophageal disorders are infrequently reported in rabbits and may involve motility dysfunction, structural abnormalities, inflammation, dysphagia or regurgitation. This case series describes the clinical and pathological finding of six rabbits evaluated at two referral hospitals that presented for ptyalism, regurgitation and/or nasal reflux of ingesta. Four rabbits underwent complete blood count and biochemistry panel, and three had radiographs performed. Computed tomography was conducted in five rabbits, three of which demonstrated esophageal dilation. Fluoroscopic swallow studies were performed in five rabbits revealing an esophageal achalasia like-syndrome in three cases; reduced lower esophageal sphincter (LES) opening with retrograde bolus movement in three; focal narrowing at the gastroesophageal junction in one; and no evidence of esophageal motility disorder in one rabbit. Gastroscopy was performed in three rabbits, identifying masses associated with the LES in two cases, and non-diagnostic findings in one. Two rabbits died following endoscopy, two died after initiation of medical management, one was euthanized, and one was reported as clinically stable by the referring veterinarian. Necropsies were available for two rabbits: one revealed acute ulcerative gastritis and reactive colitis without an identifiable cause of regurgitation, while the other showed gastritis at the gastroesophageal junction along with marked smooth muscle degeneration and intracellular edema of the LES. Bronchopneumonia was documented in four rabbits. Surviving rabbits were treated with sildenafil (1-50 mg/kg PO q8-24hr), and three also received omeprazole (20mg/kg PO q12hr); however, the therapeutic efficacy of these therapies remains unclear.
Session Type
Lecture (25 Min)