Lymphangiectasia in Yorkie Dogs

Lymphangiectasia is a congenital obstructive disorder that may affect the gastrointestinal tract. Yorkshire terriers are genetically predisposed to this condition. Lymphangiectasia may present no symptoms, but some Yorkies may suffer life-threatening complications from this condition.

  1. Identification

    • Lymphangiectasia is a disorder that causes dilation and dysfunction of the dog's intestinal lymphatic system. This means that the dog's intestinal lymph drainage is impaired because of an obstruction. This may result in extremely low blood protein levels and can make the dog very ill.

    Types

    • While lymphangiectasia can occur in any breed, there are several breeds that have a familial predisposition. These include soft-coated Wheaten terriers, Basenjis, Lundehunds and Yorkshire terriers. The average age of onset of lymphangiectasia is 5 years of age and it seems to affect female dogs slightly more than males.

    Causes

    • Some of the causes of lymphangiectasia in Yorkies may include widespread abnormalities of the dog's lymphatic system, chylothorax (high fat fluid in the chest cavity) and lymphedema (swelling of the body due to poor lymphatic drainage). Yorkies that suffer from this condition may have a thoracic duct obstruction, which is a blockage of the lymphatic system. This impairs the drainage of the lymphatic system. Lymphangiectasia may also be caused by heart conditions such as heart failure and pericarditis.

    Symptoms

    • The symptoms that are associated with lymphangiectasia may include diarrhea, lethargy, anorexia, weight loss, vomiting, flatulence, fluid in the abdominal cavity, trouble breathing because of an excess of fluid in the chest cavity and edema (swelling) of the body.

    Diagnosis And Treatment

    • The diagnosis of lymphangiectasia in Yorkies may be made using diagnostic testing tools such as chest and abdominal X-rays, fecal examinations, urinalysis and blood tests such as a CBC (complete blood count). An abdominal ultrasound may also be used to determine if fluid is present in the chest cavity. Corticosteroids may be prescribed in the treatment of lymphangiectasia, as well as dietary management. A diet that is low in fat is recommended for dogs that suffer from this condition. Diuretics may be prescribed in an effort to remove some of the excess fluid buildup in the body.

    Considerations

    • Lymphangiectasia is a condition that tends to run in families. If you are considering buying a Yorkie, do so from a reputable breeder that can provide a family history of the dog. If your Yorkie begins to show any signs of lymphangiectasia, consult a veterinarian immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment to ensure the best possible outcome for your Yorkie.