Gallbladder Mucocele is a serious, yet often ignored condition affecting some dogs. This is a condition where thick mucus builds up in the gallbladder, which can eventually lead to obstruction (blockage) and inflammation. If you are aware of the condition, early detection and treatment become factors in preventing severe or lasting complications and aiding in your dog's health and comfort. Awareness gives you the power to help recognize any of the warning signs and get treatment sooner rather than later.
Signs & Symptoms
Gallbladder Mucocele can present with many signs and symptoms, although not all dogs will show obvious symptoms early in the disease process. Generally, the following symptoms are typical:
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Vomiting and nausea
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Fever
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Jaundice (yellowing of the skin, eyes, or gums)
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Abdominal pain or tenderness
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Lethargy and appetite loss
Since some dogs may be asymptomatic for some time, bringing your dog to the veterinarian as a regular preventative health maintenance appointment will help you catch these conditions before they can become too serious.
What Causes Gallbladder Mucocele?
While we do not fully know the cause of Gallbladder Mucocele, we do know the following risk factors:
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Breed predisposition: Some breeds (for example, Shetland Sheepdogs, Cocker Spaniels, and Miniature Schnauzers) are more prone to developing this condition.
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Problems of fat metabolism: Abnormal fat processing in the body may contribute to the development.
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Diet: High-fat diets may increase your risk of gallbladder mucocele.
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Other underlying health conditions: Underlying conditions, such as hyperthyroidism may play a role.
Knowing these risk factors can give you information to help with preventative care or consider early testing.
Diagnosis
There are several tests that may be used to accurately diagnose your dog if he has Gallbladder Mucocele:
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Blood work: A complete blood count and blood chemistries can establish liver enzyme levels, and possibly the inflammation.
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Other Diagnostic Imaging: Ultrasounds or X-rays may reveal inconsistent structures within the gallbladder and bile ducts.
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Lab Tests: Lab analysis of bile and other fluids may require collection.
Good diagnostic work is critical to make an accurate diagnosis and create the best treatment plan after the diagnosis.
What are the treatment options?
Treatment of a gallbladder mucocele is different depending on if your pet is healthy or semi-healthy, and how bad the mucocele is; your dog's appointments can give direction on treatment.
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Medications: to reduce inflammation, cure infection, or promote better bile flow.
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Dietary changes: Avoiding complicated or high-fat foods can reduce the gallbladder's daily stress.
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Hydration therapy: Fluid therapy and supportive care until fluid levels stabilize.
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Surgery: Gallbladder removal surgery is an option, but is not always necessary.
Ongoing and follow-up care is very important to ensure your dog is comfortable and getting better.
What Should You Do? Protect Your Dog's Health
If you see any symptoms or are generally concerned about your dog's health, please call your veterinarian as soon as possible and use early treatment to your advantage.
