B-mode and Doppler ultrasound in the gastrointestinal evaluation of cats

Abstract

Ultrasound (USG) is a valuable diagnostic tool for evaluating the gastrointestinal tract of cats, providing noninvasive and dynamic information. B-mode USG allows evaluation of intestinal wall thickness, stratification, motility, and adjacent structures, such as lymph nodes and peritoneum. The stomach and intestinal segments can be differentiated based on their location, wall stratification, and relationships with surrounding organs. Normal ultrasound parameters, including gastric and intestinal wall thickness, peristaltic activity, and luminal content appearance, have been established for cats. Doppler ultrasound was used to assess vascular flow in the celiac and cranial mesenteric arteries and detect hemodynamic changes associated with gastrointestinal diseases. Alterations in flow velocity, resistivity index, and pulsatility index provide insights into vascular resistance and parenchymal function. Doppler velocimetry can also differentiate normal from pathological flow patterns, thereby aiding in the diagnosis of inflammatory, neoplastic, and ischemic conditions. Ultrasound findings of feline chronic enteropathy include wall thickening, loss of layering, and altered vascular supply. Lymphoplasmacytic enteritis and alimentary lymphoma, which are common in cats, present overlapping USG features, requiring histopathology for definitive diagnosis. Doppler alterations in the mesenteric arteries reflect gastrointestinal inflammation and ischemia, highlighting their potential as complementary diagnostic tools. Although B-mode and Doppler ultrasound are effective in identifying gastrointestinal abnormalities, further studies are needed to establish reference values and refine their clinical applications. The integration of these techniques enhances the noninvasive assessment of feline enteropathies and contributes to improved diagnosis and management. This review explores the use of B-mode and Doppler ultrasound for assessing the stomach and intestines in healthy and diseased felines.