M. Gualtieri

Emesis in dogs: a review

Emesis is a common presenting sign in small animal practice. It requires a rational approach to management that is based upon a sound understanding of pathophysiology combined with logical decision making. This review, which assesses the weight of available evidence, outlines the physiology of the vomiting reflex, causes of emesis, the consequences of emesis and the approach to clinical management of the vomiting dog. The applicability of diagnostic testing modalities and the merit of traditional approaches to management, such as dietary changes, are discussed. The role and usefulness of both traditional and novel anti‐emetic drugs is examined, including in specific circumstances such as following cytotoxic drug treatment. The review also examines areas in which common clinical practice is not necessarily supported by objective evidence and, as such, highlights questions worthy of further clinical research.

Mechanisms, causes, investigation and management of vomiting disorders in cats : a literature review

Vomiting is a common presenting complaint in feline practice. This article differs from previous reviews in that it is an evidence-based review of the mechanisms, causes, investigation and management of vomiting in the domestic cat. Published evidence was reviewed, and then used to make recommendations for clinical assessment, diagnosis, antiemetic drug treatment, dietary management and monitoring of cats presenting with vomiting. The strength of the evidence on which recommendations are made (and areas where evidence is lacking for cats) has been highlighted throughout.

Argyrophil cells in gastrointestinal epithelial tumours of the dog

Fifty-two cases of gastrointestinal mucosal tumours of the dog were examined for argyrophil cells by means of the Grimelius stain. Argyrophil cells were found in each of five cases (100 per cent) of gastric adenoma, in five (71.4 per cent) of seven large-intestine adenomas, in 13 (59.1 per cent) of 22 gastric carcinomas, in five (62.5 per cent) of eight small-intestine carcinomas and in four (40 per cent) of ten large-intestine carcinomas. The argyrophil cells represented a minority of the tumour cell population in all cases. These results demonstrate that a significant proportion of gastrointestinal mucosal tumours of the dog contain a mixture of epithelial and endocrine cells. Similar findings have been reported in man.