Which statement best describes congenital lymphangiectasia in dogs?

• A. It is congenital and commonly seen in Yorkshire Terrier and Maltese
• B. It is acquired later in life
• C. It is caused by dietary deficiency
• D. It is associated with left-sided heart disease

Answer: (A)

Congenital lymphangiectasia is a developmental abnormality of the intestinal lymphatic system that typically presents in young, small-breed dogs. Yorkshire Terriers and Maltese are well-known breeds with predisposition to this condition. Because it is congenital, the problem appears early in life rather than developing later as an acquired disease. The disease involves dilation of intestinal lymphatics, leading to protein-losing enteropathy and related signs such as chronic diarrhea and weight loss.

The statement that it is acquired later in life describes a secondary form of lymphangiectasia, which tends to occur due to other conditions like portal hypertension or cardiac disease causing increased venous pressure. Dietary deficiency does not cause the congenital lymphatic dilation; while diet can affect symptom management, the underlying issue is a structural lymphatic abnormality. Left-sided heart disease is not the typical association for congenital lymphangiectasia; secondary cases are more linked to right-sided heart issues that raise venous pressures.