PCV (Packed Cell Volume)
Gastroenteritis, Hemorrhagic--Dogs
BASICS
DEFINITION
A peracute hemorrhagic enteritis of dogs which is characterized by a sudden onset of severe bloody diarrhea which is often explosive, vomiting and hypovolemia with dramatic losses of water and electrolytes into the intestinal lumen.
Pathophysiology
Many conditions result in hemorrhagic diarrhea but the hemorrhagic gastroenteritis (HGE) syndrome of dogs appears to have unique clinical features that distinguish it as an entity separate from other causes. HGE is characterized as a peracute loss of intestinal mucosal integrity with the rapid movement of blood, fluid and electrolytes into the gut lumen. Dehydration and hypovolemic shock occur quickly. Translocation of bacteria or toxins through the damaged intestinal mucosa may result in septic or endotoxic shock. She had no diarrhea though.... until later after the bleeding stopped.
Systems Affected
• Gastrointestinal
• Cardiovascular
Genetics
Unknown, however there appears to be specific breeds represented.
Incidence and Prevalence
Common clinical condition.
