Intestinal polyps

What are intestinal polyps?

Intestinal polyps are small protrusions of the mucous membrane that look like fungi or fingers. They can occur anywhere in the intestine, but are more commonly found in the colon or rectum. The size of the polyps can vary from a few millimeters to several centimeters. Most intestinal polyps are benign, i.e. they are not cancerous and do not spread to other organs. However, some polyps can become malignant over time and lead to bowel cancer.

How do intestinal polyps develop?

The exact cause of the development of intestinal polyps is not known. However, there are some factors that can increase the risk, such as

• Age : Intestinal polyps are more common in older dogs, especially after the age of 6.
• Diet: A high-fat, low-fiber or high-sugar diet can promote the formation of polyps.
• Genetics : Some dog breeds have a higher predisposition to intestinal polyps, such as the German Shepherd, the Boxer or the Cocker Spaniel.
• Inflammation: Chronic inflammation of the intestines, for example caused by parasites, bacteria or allergies, can damage the mucous membrane and lead to polyps.

What symptoms do intestinal polyps cause?

Many dogs with intestinal polyps have no or only mild symptoms. These can vary depending on the location and size of the polyps, but some of the most common are

• Blood in the feces or anus
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Mucus or pus in the feces
• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Weight loss or loss of appetite
• Vomiting or nausea
• Flatulence or bloating

If the polyps are very large or narrow the bowel, they can lead to a bowel obstruction. This is a life-threatening emergency that is indicated by the following signs:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Bloated abdomen
• No feces or gas discharge
• Vomiting of feces
• Shock or collapse

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, you should see a vet immediately.

How are intestinal polyps diagnosed?

To diagnose intestinal polyps in your dog, your vet will perform a thorough clinical examination and ask you about your dog's history and symptoms. They will also order some tests, such as

• A blood test: to assess your dog's overall health and detect possible signs of anemia, inflammation or infection.
• A fecal examination: To look for blood, mucus, pus or parasites in the feces.
• An X-ray: To look at the intestines and other organs in the abdomen and detect possible changes.
• Anultrasound examination : To assess the structure and blood flow of the bowel and polyps in more detail.
• An endoscopy: To view the bowel from the inside and, if necessary, to take tissue samples from the polyps. This is a minimally invasive procedure in which a flexible camera is inserted into the bowel through the mouth or anus.

The tissue samples are then examined under a microscope to determine the type and degree of malignancy of the polyps.

How are intestinal polyps treated?

The treatment of intestinal polyps depends on the number, size, location and type of polyps. The most common treatment options are

• Drug therapy: If the polyps are small, benign and not causing discomfort, your vet may prescribe medication to reduce the inflammation of the intestines and inhibit the growth of the polyps. These include, for example, anti-inflammatory or immunomodulating agents.
• Surgical removal: If the polyps are large, malignant, symptomatic or blocking the bowel, they will need to be surgically removed. This can be done either by endoscopy or by open abdominal surgery. During an endoscopy, a snare or forceps is passed through the camera and placed around the polyp to cut it off. In open abdominal surgery, an incision is made in the abdomen and the affected section of bowel is removed. The remaining ends are then stitched back together.
• Radiotherapy or chemotherapy: If the polyps are malignant and have spread to other organs, your vet may recommend radiotherapy or chemotherapy to destroy the cancer cells or slow down their growth. These therapies can be used alone or in combination with surgery.

How can you prevent intestinal polyps?

There is no sure way to prevent intestinal polyps in your dog, but you can take some measures to reduce the risk, such as

• Feeding your dog a well-balanced, high-quality, high-fiber diet.
• Avoid giving your dog fatty, sugary or highly spiced foods.
• Keep your dog's weight in the normal range.
• Provide regular exercise and play for your dog.
• Have your dog regularly examined and vaccinated by a vet.
• Deworm your dog regularly and protect it from fleas and ticks.
• Have your dog spayed or neutered early if your vet recommends it.