Acute Gastroenteritis and Colitis Flashcards
Define -itis
indicates nonspecific inflammation; gives no indication of an underlying cause for the inflammation
Gastr-
stomach
Enter-
small intestine
Col-
large intestine, especially the colon
4 functional consequences of GI inflammation
- decreased digestion of nutrients
- decreased absorption of nutrients
- decreased absorption of water from the colon contents
- alterations in intestinal motility
Clinical signs that result from the loss of function of the GI tract with acute inflammation
- rapid onset of diarrhea
- vomiting
- abdominal pain
- dehydration
- depression
- pyrexia
What does vomiting indicate in acute inflammation of the GI tract?
usually locates the inflammation to the stomach and/or SI
Why does abdominal pain occur with acute inflammation of the GI tract?
likely due to cramping of intestines due to increased intestinal motility
Why are pets with acute GI inflammation usually dehydrated
B/c of the loss of fluids from V/D
What changes may be present in a PE on a patient with acute gastritis or colitis?
- Body condition is usually pretty good and they have minimal other PE abnormalities
- dehydration may be present via dry MM and/or increased skin turgor
- depression
- reaction of abdominal palpation
2 Tests that should be done in any young canine patient with acute onset of diarrhea
direct fecal prep & fecal flotation
parvo test
Describe a patient where admin of SQ fluids is appropriate
small patients (cats & dogs under 20#) demonstrating moderate clinical signs and mild dehydration
Pros of intestinal rest for patients with acute GI Dz.
- decreases stimulus for continuing inflammation
- decreases stimulus for digestive enzyme secretion
- decreases risk of aspiration of food particles in vomiting patients
Cons of intestinal rest for patients exhibiting acute GI Dz
- lack of enterocyte nutrition = enterocyte death
- enterocyte death = malabsorption and exacerbation of diarrhea
Define dietary indiscretion
ingestion of anything other than accepted dog food or treats
