Study Start Date: 01/01/2009
Study End Date: 8/31/2013

Yorkshire Terriers are predisposed to development of protein-losing enteropathy (PLE). At Cornell University we have recently observed increasing numbers of Yorkshire Terriers with PLE. Intestinal pathology typically includes lymphangiectasia and mucosal lymphocytic plasmacytic infiltrates. We have also observed that the breed commonly develops lesions involving the intestinal crypts, described as "dilated intestinal crypts" (JVIM 14:298-307, 2000) or "mucoid cryptal ectasia" (JAAHA 39:187-191, 2003) consisting of cystic crypts filled with mucus and necrotic cellular debris. Our aim in the Simpson Laboratory at Cornell University is to further investigate the etiopathogenesis of PLE in Yorkshire Terriers, to explore the mechanisms for development of crypt lesions, and their role contributing to enteric protein loss. Since the Yorkshire Terrier is an at-risk breed for development of PLE, we also aim to explore the possibility of a genetic basis to the disease.

Study Design:
Prospective Case-controlled

Sample Size:
25

Inclusion Criteria:

• Yorkshire Terriers known to be affected with PLE that have previously undergone GI biopsy, for whom clinical history and histology report are available.
• Any Yorkshire Terrier undergoing prospective investigation of GI disease that INCLUDES INTESTINAL BIOPSY (endoscopic or full thickness).
• Non-Yorkshire Terrier dog breeds (any breed) undergoing investigation of PLE that INCLUDES INTESTINAL BIOPSY (endoscopic or full thickness).  

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presumptive diagnosis of PLE made, with no intestinal biopsies collected.

Study Controls:

• 'Normal' Yorkshire Terriers with no history of GI signs or hypoproteinemia.
• Non-Yorkshire Terrier dog breeds with PLE

Samples:
Several samples are required:

• 3-5 mls EDTA blood
• Additional endoscopic samples from dogs undergoing GI biopsy
• Recuts (3-5) of histology slides from dogs that have previously undergone GI biopsy.  Original diagnosis and samples may have been collected in the past – the study does not require ongoing recruitment.

Costs/Reimbursements
Shipping expenses will be reimbursed to all participants.

Full Disclosure information:

• The study is unfunded.
• The investigator does not have a conflict of interest.
• The study will be published if results are negative
• The study will be reported on VIN
• The authors will acknowledge VIN if the study is published with significant VIN case recruitment.