Prevalence of mitral valve regurgitation in asymptomatic Chinese Crested dogs
Mitral regurgitation (MR) is one of the key aspects of myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD), which is the most common heart disease in dogs. Myxomatous mitral valve disease affects many small breed dogs, and some breeds such as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Dachshunds, Yorkshire terriers and Miniature Schnauzers have been studied in more detail.
Breed-specific information regarding MMVD is valuable for providing appropriate advice on management and breeding. Data, based on insurance statistics in Sweden, show that Chinese Crested dogs are twice as likely to visit the veterinarian for a heart-related problem than other breeds.
This was a prospective observational study, in which clinical examinations, blood pressure measurements and echocardiographic and Doppler examinations were performed in 102 client-owned, healthy dogs. Pulsed wave tissue Doppler imaging was performed in 87 dogs.
Mitral regurgitation was present in 39 (38%) dogs, whereas a systolic murmur was present in 35 (34%) dogs. Mitral valve prolapse was present in 32 (31%) dogs.
Researchers identified tricuspid regurgitation in 29 (28%) dogs. Dogs in the MR group were older (median 9.5 years), and males were overrepresented compared with the non-MR group. Differences were also found between groups regarding left atrial size and transmitral E wave velocity.
The prevalence of MR in Chinese Crested dogs is similar to reports in other small breeds. Whether the MR detected in these dogs is a sign of MMVD is unknown.
E Adler et al. “Prevalence of mitral valve regurgitation in 102 asymptomatic Chinese Crested dogs.” J Vet Cardiol. 2023 Apr; 46:55-61. doi: 10.1016/j.jvc.2022.09.006.
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