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

## TL;DR

A Shih Tzu with intestinal inflammation showed increased tissue stiffness using strain elastography, suggesting it could help diagnose canine gut diseases.

## Contribution

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

## Key findings

- Strain elastography showed a strain ratio of 1.19 and heterogeneous color pattern in the duodenum.
- Histopathology confirmed duodenitis and gastritis correlating with elastography findings.
- Strain elastography may serve as a non-invasive tool for evaluating intestinal stiffness in dogs.

## Abstract

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.