(SNM04) Case Description of Canine Gallbladder Mucocele: Retrospective Study of 60 Cases

Abstract:

Background: Limited information exists regarding the pathogenesis and treatment of gallbladder mucocele (GBM) in dogs.

Objective: To analyze epidemiological data and evaluate remission possibilities in dogs diagnosed with GBM. ANIMALS: Dogs treated at an Endocrinology Service (October/2017- May/2023).

Methods: A retrospective descriptive analysis of medical records from dogs diagnosed with GBM.

Results: Out of 945 dogs examined, 63 were diagnosed with GBM (three cases excluded due to missing data). Among the remaining 60 cases, 65% were female, with an average diagnosis age of 12.3 years. Mixed breed dogs (30%), Lhasa Apso (13.3%), and Shih Tzu (13.3%) were most commonly affected. GBM occurred without comorbidities in 35% of cases. Comorbidities included hypercortisolism (28.3%), diabetes mellitus (8.3%), hypothyroidism (5.0%), adrenal neoplasia (10.0%), obesity (3.3%), and other conditions (9.8%). Cholecystectomy was performed in 29 dogs (62% elective, 34.5% emergency), with no bacterial growth in 70% of cases and one postoperative death. Conservative treatment approach was used in 31 cases. One dog received only bezafibrate, while the others were treated with varying combinations of fish oil, ezetimibe, S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), silymarin, ursodeoxycholic acid, and hepatoprotectors. Resolution occurred in 25.8% (8/31), with two recurrences at 5 and 36 months. Six dogs achieved complete remission (three with GBM alone, one with diabetes, one with hypercortisolism, and one with adrenal neoplasia) following 3 to 11 months of conservative treatment.

Conclusion: Although surgical treatment remains the definitive approach for GBM, comprehensive protocols incorporating lipid-lowering agents, choleretics, and hepatoprotectors may offer a viable alternative, with a remission probability of 19%.