Gallbladder Atrophy in Dogs Linked to Pancreatitis: A Case Study with Imaging Insights

In a recent case study, researchers have shed light on an uncommon but significant condition in veterinary medicine - gallbladder atrophy (GBA) in dogs, particularly associated with pancreatitis. This condition, characterized by a reduction in gallbladder size and volume, is known in human medicine to often occur alongside gallbladder and pancreas pathologies. However, its documentation in canine patients is relatively sparse.

The study revolves around a 7-year-old Yorkshire Terrier who presented with primary symptoms related to the gastrointestinal system. Initially, these symptoms led to a diagnosis of pancreatitis. During the course of treatment, abdominal ultrasonography and advanced imaging techniques, including computed tomography, revealed the presence of a gallbladder nodule and a structure suspected to be cholelithiasis (gallstones).

Over a four-year period of observation and imaging, a notable change was observed in the gallbladder's structure. The gallbladder progressively regressed, a phenomenon known as atrophy, leaving behind the gallbladder nodule. Interestingly, despite the regression of the gallbladder, the patient did not exhibit any specific gallbladder-related problems outside of the pancreatitis symptoms. It's noteworthy that cholecystectomy - surgical removal of the gallbladder - was not performed in this case.

From these observations, the researchers suggest that the GBA observed in this canine patient was likely induced by cholecystitis, a condition of gallbladder inflammation, associated with the underlying pancreatitis. This case highlights the importance of considering gallbladder atrophy as a potential diagnosis in dogs showing signs of pancreatitis and gastrointestinal issues.

The study emphasizes the crucial role of comprehensive diagnostic imaging, like ultrasonography and computed tomography, in accurately diagnosing and understanding the progression of such conditions in dogs. For practicing veterinarians, this case serves as a valuable reminder of the interconnected nature of canine internal organ diseases and the significance of thorough, ongoing diagnostic evaluation in managing complex cases.

Read full study here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10755810/