Gluten-sensitive Enteropathy of Irish Setters

Gluten, a protein in wheat and other cereals such as barley is responsible for a particular inflammatory disease of intestinal tract (enteropahy) of Irish setters. Gluten-sensitive enteropathy is due to a product of gluten digestion which is toxic to mucosal cells and causes an immune response.

Signs Gluten-sensitive Enteropathy

The disease is characterized by inflammation of the small intestine (portion of the gastrointestinal tract, failed uptake of substances through the lining of the intestines (malabsorption), and malnutrition. Inflammation is usually manifested by typical signs of pain, heat, redness, swelling, and loss of function. Enteropathy causes malabsorption of iron, calcium and vitamins.

A familial gluten-sensitive enteropathy has been described in Irish setters but gluten sensitivity is likely to affect a wide number of dogs and cats. In Irish setters the disease is seen 4 and 7 months of age as a failure to gain weight accompanied by chronic diarrhea.

Diagnosis Gluten-sensitive Enteropathy

Diagnosis is based on resolution of signs when the animal is fed gluten-free diet and recurrence of clinical signs when the diet is withdrawn. Diagnosis is further confirmed by low folate levels but normal vitamin B12 levels. A definitive diagnosis is made from biopsy of the small intestine.

Treatment Gluten-sensitive Enteropathy

Affected dogs should be placed on a gluten-free diet and maintained on this once symptoms have disappeared. This means the diet must be free from cereal products. Rice-based foods and canned meat should be used. In some cases, dietary treatment must continue for months or years before remission is seen. Commercial pet foods contain some form of gluten, and even small amounts can prevent recovery.

The prognosis is generally good so long as the condition is not advanced. With time, affected animals can lose an allergy to gluten and recover tolerance for this food.

References:
1. Textbook of Small Animal Medicine. John K. Dunn
2. Digestive Disease in the Dog and Cat (Library Vet Practice) by James W. Simpson and Roderick W. Else
3. Home-Prepared Dog & Cat Diets: the Healthful Alternative. Donald R. Strombeck