Evaluation of presentation, treatment and outcome in dogs with granulomatous steatitis associated with hypercalcaemia: six cases (2019-2023)

Objectives

To report the presentation, treatment and outcome of dogs with granulomatous steatitis associated with total and ionised hypercalcaemia.

Methods

Six dogs diagnosed with ionised and/or total hypercalcaemia and histologically diagnosed granulomatous steatitis were evaluated to determine the clinical signs, clinical findings, response to treatment and outcome. These cases were seen at different primary care and referral veterinary hospitals in the United Kingdom between 2019 and 2023.

Results

No alternative aetiology to explain the total and/or ionised hypercalcaemia or steatitis was identified. The most common presenting signs were lethargy, anorexia or hyporexia, vomiting and polyuria/polydipsia. Other clinical signs included weight loss, discomfort and panting. Five out of the six dogs responded to prednisolone. Four dogs were alive at the time of writing, one dog was lost to follow-up and one dog died 2 weeks post-diagnosis.

Clinical Significance

It is well-established that granulomatous disease can cause hypercalcaemia. In this case series we found granulomatous steatitis associated with total and/or ionised hypercalcaemia. Dogs diagnosed with granulomatous steatitis should have ionised calcium measured, which may prompt further diagnostics and treatment options. Dogs with hypercalcaemia should be evaluated for evidence of steatitis where more common differentials have been excluded.