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DOMINIQUE G. PENNINCK, CYNTHIA R. L. WEBSTER, JOHN H. KEATING
Background:
This study aimed to characterize a novel sonographic finding in cats: a hyperechoic mucosal band paralleling the submucosa, and to correlate this feature with histopathological evidence of intestinal mucosal fibrosis. Additionally, the study explored clinical and laboratory features associated with this sonographic change, which could indicate underlying gastrointestinal (GI) pathology.
Methods:
The medical records of 11 cats with confirmed mucosal fibrosis on full-thickness intestinal biopsy were retrospectively reviewed. All cats underwent B-mode abdominal ultrasound imaging within one week of surgical biopsy. Sonographic findings, clinical signs, and histopathological changes were analyzed. A separate prospective cohort of 35 cats with hyperechoic mucosal bands on ultrasound was also reviewed to assess the prevalence of GI disease in this group.
Results:
Retrospective group (11 cats):
All cats presented with GI-related clinical signs (vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, or weight loss). Sonographically, a hyperechoic mucosal band was identified in all cases, predominantly in the jejunum. Wall thickening and altered wall layering (e.g., hyperechoic mucosa, thickened muscularis) were common. Histopathology confirmed mucosal fibrosis, often accompanied by moderate to severe inflammatory infiltrates.
Prospective group (35 cats):
Of cats with the hyperechoic mucosal band, 68% exhibited GI signs at presentation. However, histopathological confirmation was not obtained in this group.
Limitations:
The study was limited by the small sample size, lack of histopathological confirmation in the prospective cohort, and potential selection bias, as all retrospective cases had significant clinical signs. Furthermore, the clinical significance of the hyperechoic mucosal band in asymptomatic cats remains uncertain.
Conclusions:
The hyperechoic mucosal band seen on ultrasound is a consistent marker of mucosal fibrosis in cats and is often associated with concurrent intestinal inflammation and wall thickening. While its presence frequently correlates with GI symptoms, further investigation is warranted to understand its prognostic value and natural progression in asymptomatic cases.
Longitudinal sonogram of a jejunal segment of a cat with a thin hyperechoic linear mucosal band paralleling the submucosa. The calipers outline a thickened wall (4.5 mm). Lu, lumen of the bowel; LK, left kidney. Note the thickened muscularis layer.
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