Scores could help predict protein-losing enteropathy outcomes.

Veterinary researchers have developed a screening score system to assess undernutrition in dogs with protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) and predict their likely prognosis.

The research, led by the Royal Veterinary College, and involving researchers from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, found that coat condition and muscle loss were the strongest indicators of poor outcomes in the long-term.

The results were based on 57 cases of dogs diagnosed with PLE from three referral hospitals.

Five categories were used to assess the dogs: unintentional weight loss in the previous six months; nutritional intake during the previous seven days; body condition; muscle condition; and coat condition. The higher the score, the greater the level of undernutrition.

Follow up information was gathered for at least six months to assess the dogs’ progress, or up until they died or were euthanised if that was sooner, and their outcomes were compared with their initial scores.

The dogs which had initially scored higher for undernutrition were found to be less likely to have achieved clinical remission. They tended to have longer hospital stays and were less likely to respond to initial treatment.

Following the study, the researchers hope that their scoring system will help  veterinary surgeons treat cases of PLE and manage owner expectations, although further research into the five variables will be needed.

Silke Salavati, professor in small animal gastroenterologyat at the Royal (Dick) School, said: “Our study highlights the need for vets to be aware of a high likelihood of undernutrition in dogs with protein-losing enteropathy. Our proposed scoring system, which should include coat condition as a key parameter, could aid earlier recognition, diagnosis and intervention where needed.”

The study has been published in the Journal of Veterinary Medicine.

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