Name:
Aortic Stenosis
Other Name(s):
Acronym(s):
Severity:
Genetic:
Idiopathic:
Predisposed Breeds:
Onset Age:
Overview
Aortic stenosis, also known as subvalvular aortic stenosis (SAS), is a congenital heart defect found in dogs. This condition involves the narrowing of the aortic valve, which restricts blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta. As a result, the heart must work harder, increasing the risk of heart failure. This condition is relatively common, particularly in large dog breeds. The severity of aortic stenosis may range from mild to severe, with severe cases potentially causing heart failure or sudden death.
Causes
The primary cause of aortic stenosis is genetic inheritance. It is a congenital defect, meaning it is present at birth and often found in specific breeds. This congenital nature means that affected dogs are born with the condition.
There are no significant secondary causes for aortic stenosis. The defect is primarily because of genetic factors, and environmental influences rarely play a role in its development.
Regarding other causes, environmental factors are not associated with aortic stenosis. This condition comes from genetic predisposition, underscoring the importance of responsible breeding to reduce its occurrence.
Predisposed Breeds
Breeds predisposed to aortic stenosis include:
Symptoms
Primary symptoms of aortic stenosis include exercise intolerance, fainting (syncope), and difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity. These signs indicate that the heart is struggling to keep up with the body’s demands.
Secondary symptoms often include a heart murmur that a veterinarian may detect during an examination. Signs of heart failure, such as coughing and fluid buildup in the abdomen or lungs, may also be present.
Other symptoms may include lethargy, reduced appetite, or sudden collapse. These symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but they all point to the underlying heart issue.
Aortic stenosis symptoms include:
- Exercise intolerance
- Fainting (syncope)
- Difficulty breathing
- Heart murmur
- Coughing
- Fluid accumulation
- Lethargy
Diagnosis
Diagnosing aortic stenosis typically involves a physical examination and detection of a heart murmur. The veterinarian will listen to the dog’s heart sounds to identify any abnormalities that suggest this condition.
Further diagnostics may include imaging tests like echocardiography. These tests help assess the severity of the stenosis by providing detailed images of the heart and its structures, confirming the diagnosis.
Aortic stenosis should be differentiated from other conditions, such as pulmonic stenosis, mitral valve disease, and patent ductus arteriosus. These differential diagnoses require careful evaluation to ensure correct identification and treatment.
Treatment
Treatment for aortic stenosis often involves medication. Beta-blockers are commonly used to manage symptoms and reduce the heart’s workload, providing relief to affected dogs and improving their quality of life.
In severe cases, surgical intervention or balloon valvuloplasty may be necessary. These procedures aim to correct the narrowing of the aortic valve, allowing for better blood flow and reducing the risk of heart failure.
Management
Long-term management of aortic stenosis involves regular veterinary check-ups. These check-ups help monitor the progression of the condition and adjust treatment as needed to ensure the dog’s well-being.
Lifestyle changes may also be necessary to reduce stress and physical exertion on the dog. This includes changing exercise routines and providing a calm environment to support heart health.
Prevention
Preventing aortic stenosis is challenging because of its genetic nature. However, responsible breeding practices can help reduce its incidence by avoiding breeding dogs with known heart conditions.
While there is no definitive prevention, early detection through regular veterinary check-ups can help manage the condition. This proactive approach allows for timely intervention and treatment.
