Imaging and clinical features of an adult dog with nephrotic syndrome diagnosed with concurrent gastro‐oesophageal and jejuno‐jejunal intussusceptions

Abstract A 2‐year‐old, female, spayed Australian Kelpie presented for acute retching and excessive swallowing with a recent history of progressive abdominal distension and swelling in all four limbs. Bloodwork and urinalysis were consistent with nephrotic syndrome. Computed tomography was performed, which identified concurrent gastro‐oesophageal and jejuno‐jejunal intussusceptions. Radiography and ultrasound were utilised as adjunctive comparative imaging modalities. Surgery revealed spontaneous resolution of the gastro‐oesophageal intussusception; however, the jejuno‐jejunal intussusception was irreducible and required resection. Histopathology of the jejuno‐jejunal intussusception did not identify a pathological lead point. The dog was unfortunately euthanased shortly after surgery due to progressive clinical deterioration. Alimentary intussusception is a known rare complication of nephrotic syndrome in people, but has not been reported in dogs. This case report suggests that an intussusception should be considered in dogs with nephrotic syndrome that present with acute gastrointestinal symptoms.