Comprehensive treatment of dogs with gastrointestinal diseases accompanied by malabsorption syndrome
Abstract
Malabsorption syndrome in dogs is a complex multifactorial condition characterized by impaired digestion and absorption of nutrients in the small intestine. The main clinical signs include chronic or intermittent diarrhea, steatorrhea, flatulence, weight loss, decreased appetite, poor coat quality, general lethargy, and signs of secondary malnutrition. Comprehensive treatment involved pharmacological therapy tailored to the underlying disease and specialized diet therapy using veterinary diets with nutraceutical properties. Within the first two weeks of treatment, improvements were observed, including reduced defecation frequency, normalization of stool consistency, disappearance of mucus and fat inclusions, improved appetite, increased activity, and enhanced coat condition. Post-treatment coprological examinations indicated restored digestive processes: stools became well-formed, signs of enzymatic insufficiency disappeared, and fecal pH stabilized. Serial blood biochemistry analyses demonstrated normalization of protein, lipid, and mineral metabolism, as well as a reduction in inflammatory markers. These included increased levels of total protein, albumin, cobalamin, and 25(OH)D, alongside decreased ALP activity, cholesterol, and C-reactive protein (CRP), indicating reduced inflammation and improved intestinal function. Ultrasound examinations revealed decreased intestinal wall thickness, improved motility, and resolution of lymphangiectasia, excessive gas, and signs of inflammation in most dogs. In some cases, normalization of liver and pancreatic echogenicity and reduced size of mesenteric lymph nodes confirmed positive structural dynamics. Thus, the results of this clinical study confirm the efficacy of a comprehensive therapeutic approach to canine malabsorption syndrome, with diet therapy playing a central role. The use of hydrolyzed proteins, prebiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants contributed to faster and more sustained clinical recovery, normalization of laboratory parameters, and restoration of gastrointestinal morphology and function.
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