A case of systemic pulmonary collaterals in a Doberman Pinscher with dilated cardiomyopathy phenotype

Abstract

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs is a common hereditary primary myocardial disease affecting large and giant breeds, predominantly Doberman Pinschers. This pathology is associated with mechanical and electrophysiological dysfunction of the myocardium, which is manifested by inadequate ventricular eccentric hypertrophy. Our report focuses on the case of unusual systemic pulmonary collaterals in a Doberman Pinscher with DCM phenotype. Cardiologic data have shown that myocardial histologic changes may be secondary to the presence of pulmonary collaterals and their potential influence on the development of left ventricular volume overload. Thus, we had every reason to believe that the volume overload that caused the development of congestive heart failure in this dog and possibly sudden cardiac death was caused by the presence of a combined arterial malformation. This case illustrates that atypical bypass manifestations detected during echocardiography can be further evaluated using computed tomography and angiography to further characterize and identify concomitant vascular abnormalities that might otherwise be masked or overlooked, especially when LV volume overload occurs in breeds predisposed to DCM. The research team considers it very important to publish such cases, as this will help the entire veterinary community quickly accumulate knowledge and experience for diagnostic and treatment of similar and other cases.