Gallbladder Mucocele in Dogs: Diagnosis and Management Insights

In recent years, a mysterious and potentially fatal condition known as gallbladder mucocele formation has emerged in dogs, drawing significant attention from researchers and veterinarians alike. Despite over 100 publications on the subject, only one comprehensive review was published a decade ago. This review aims to consolidate current knowledge and practical insights on diagnosing and managing gallbladder mucocele formation in dogs.

Gallbladder mucocele formation is characterized by the abnormal secretion of thick, rubbery mucus by the gallbladder epithelium. This condition, once rare, has become a common and poorly understood cause of gallbladder disease in dogs, particularly affecting older, small-sized purebred dogs. Notably, breeds like Shetland Sheepdogs, Border Terriers, and Cocker Spaniels are at higher risk. Concurrent diagnoses of conditions such as hypothyroidism, hyperadrenocorticism, hyperlipidemia, and proteinuria are common in affected dogs.

The pathogenesis of gallbladder mucocele formation involves an abnormal secretion of mucus by the gallbladder epithelium due to dysfunction of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulatory (CFTR) channel. While the exact cause of this dysfunction remains unclear, the condition is often associated with additional health issues, suggesting a complex underlying mechanism. The disease progression can lead to severe outcomes including gallbladder wall infarction, bacterial infections, biliary obstructions, or gallbladder rupture.

Clinical diagnosis of gallbladder mucocele formation relies on abdominal ultrasound, which reveals characteristic features such as non-gravity-dependent mucus adhering to the gallbladder walls. However, detecting gallbladder rupture through ultrasound remains challenging. Surgical intervention, specifically cholecystectomy, is the primary treatment for mucocele formation, with elective procedures showing lower mortality rates compared to emergency surgeries necessitated by symptomatic cases.

Gallbladder mucocele formation is often associated with concurrent illnesses such as hyperadrenocorticism, hypothyroidism, hyperlipidemia, and proteinuria. Management strategies should encompass a holistic approach addressing these comorbidities. Medical management as an alternative to surgery remains controversial, with limited evidence supporting its efficacy in reversing mucocele formation.

In conclusion, gallbladder mucocele formation poses a significant health risk to dogs, necessitating prompt diagnosis and appropriate management. A multidisciplinary approach involving thorough diagnostic evaluations, tailored treatments, and vigilant postoperative care is crucial in improving outcomes for affected dogs. Further research is needed to enhance our understanding of this complex condition and optimize treatment strategies for better patient outcomes.