Successful management of megaoesophagus associated with hypothyroidism in a dog: A case report

Abstract

A seven-year-old male Dachshund was presented with a history of chronic regurgitation and weight loss for two months. On clinical examination, dry and rough hair coat with alopecia on nose bridge and rat tail appearance were observed. Elevated rectal temperature and increased respiratory rate were noticed. Auscultation of lung field revealed mild crackles. Leucocytosis and mild anaemia were evident on complete blood count. Hypercholesterolaemia, hypertriglyceridaemia and elevation of Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were observed in serum biochemistry. The total T4 (TT4) value was low and canine-specific thyroid stimulating hormone (cTSH) was elevated. Megaoesophagus was confirmed by plain radiography. Barium contrast radiograph revealed generalised dilatation with pooling of barium in the oesophagus. The animal was treated with levothyroxine sodium at 0.02 mg/kg BW PO BID and bethanechol at 10 mg PO TID. Supportive therapy included antibiotics, antacids and antiemetics. Elevated feeding was advised. The animal had no episodes of regurgitation even after one month Keywords: Megaoesophagus, hypothyroidism, bethanechol, elevated feeding