“Canine & Feline Gastroenterology” is a multi-author hardcover reference book on the gastrointestinal, hepatic, and pancreatic systems. This is an impressive book that aims to assist us in managing such frustrating problems as chronic diarrhea, persistent vomiting, unfathomable liver disorders, and undiagnosable pancreatitis.
The latest research, information, and evidence is included by the 85 international contributors. Each chapter is extensively referenced. There are six sections: biology; approaches to clinical signs; diagnostic tests including ultrasound, surgery, and pathology; nutritional approach; pharmacology; and diseases. This format, along with the clear Contents and succinct Index, makes the comprehensive information readily accessible.
This reference book is state-of-the-art and practice for gastroenterology. Each topic is thoroughly covered, clearly, and succinctly. Each section starts with a short description of the pathogenesis which, of course, underlies our understanding of etiologies, diagnosis, and therapy.
In the first section on biology, the complex physiology is well-explained and complemented by chapters on microbiota, immunology, inflammation, and neoplasia. The second section discusses approaches to clinical signs. Each clinical sign is briefly discussed including general principles and differential diagnoses. Many tables, lists, and algorithms make this section extremely useful for the busy practitioner.
Diagnosis is the basis of successful outcomes and this section is comprehensive. The chapter on laboratory tests contains much useful information including detection of parasites in feces and a table of the sensitivities and specificities of tests for pancreatitis in both dogs and cats. The diagnostic imaging chapter includes numerous photos of radiographs and ultrasonographs. The chapters on endoscopy and laparoscopy are similarly well-illustrated in addition to detailed descriptions of techniques. The histopathology descriptions are also well-illustrated.
The section on nutrition includes malnutrition, obesity, adverse food reactions, nutritional therapy (including soluble fiber and probiotics), and enteral feeding. The advice about the nutritional requirements of patients with chronic liver disease is refreshingly rational, as is the discussion about pancreatic disorders.
The section on pharmacology is especially practical with lists of drug mechanisms and of individual drugs along with their actions and doses.
The largest section is that on diseases. Each part starts with a description of the structure and function, followed by diagnostic options. The diseases follow. There are many useful tables of differential diagnoses and therapeutic agents, diagrams, photographs, and algorithms.
This is a definitive reference on the gastrointestinal system of dogs and cats (mostly dogs due to our understanding and research). This book is useful, even essential, for every small animal veterinarian, teacher, and researcher. It will be frequently used as the information is easy to find, complete but succinct, and practical. This evidence-based, well-written book will improve the care of our patients. I highly recommend this reference book.