Ultrasound signs and symptoms of pyloroduodenal polyps in cats

Abstract

Objectives The aim of the study was to report the ultrasonographic and clinicopathological findings in cats with confirmed pyloroduodenal adenomatous polyps. Methods Clinicopathological data, ultrasonographic and histopathological findings were collected retrospectively from medical records. Results Pyloroduodenal polyps appeared as small moderately echogenic and homogeneous nodules filling most of the proximal duodenal or pyloroduodenal lumen. The most common presenting signs in this study included acute vomiting and anorexia in 4/6 cats and lethargy in 3/6 cats. Two cats presented with severe anemia, suggestive of active bleeding. One cat presented with increased bilirubin without anemia, suggestive of impaired bile flow. Five cats survived surgical removal of the polyp and were free of clinical signs 817 days after the procedure. Conclusions and relevance Pyloroduodenal polyps have subtle ultrasonographic changes that can easily be mistaken for ingesta. They are characterized by a discrete small (up to 1.5 cm in diameter) homogeneous echogenic nodule filling the pyloroduodenal lumen. Pyloroduodenal polyps are benign lesions but can cause severe clinical signs including gastrointestinal bleeding or biliary obstruction. The prognosis is excellent with surgical removal.