First description of semiquantitative strain elastography in a dog with chronic inflammatory enteropathy

A 4-year-old female Shih Tzu presented with intermittent vomiting, diarrhea, and inappetence lasting 6 months. Physical examination revealed a mildly reduced body condition score (2/5), with no other significant abnormalities. Laboratory tests, imaging studies, and endoscopic evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of chronic inflammatory enteropathy. Strain elastography of the duodenum showed a semiquantitative strain ratio (SR) of 1.19 and a heterogeneous color pattern (blue-green with red areas), indicating increased tissue stiffness. Histopathological analysis revealed duodenitis and gastritis. This case highlights the potential of strain elastography as a non-invasive imaging tool for evaluating intestinal stiffness, correlating with inflammation, and supporting the diagnosis and management of canine enteropathies.