Heart Disease Updates

Alterations in the glycosaminoglycan and collagen structure of the heart valves causes thickening, wrinkling and nodule formation. Collagen is a substance within the valve leaflets.

The aetiology of MMVD (myxomatous mitral valve disease) is not known; however the localization and the nature of the lesions associated with MMVD suggest that the condition may be caused by an inherently determined weakness of connective tissue. A subsequent activation of certain local vasoactive substances, such as endothelins, may lead to further progression of valvular lesions by increased accumulation of glycosaminoglycans, collagen degradation and fibrosis.

A multidisciplinary international research group has recently been assembled to focus on the exact role of collagen and the local vasoactive factors in the development of myxomatous mitral valve disease in our Cavalier breed. Also at a recent Veterinary Conference in Britain, it was mentioned in a lecture on heart disease in Cavaliers that MMVD may not only be complicated by the development of congestive heart failure but the presence of MMVD and ongoing medical treatment for heart failure may also negatively interact with other drugs or anaesthesia. It was also mentioned in a lecture that approximately 30% of Cavalier have a low platelet count; the cause for these low platelet counts is unknown, but it has been speculated that they may indicate an increased consumption.

Could it be possible that those 30% of Cavaliers with a low platelet count could be having an adverse reaction from their vaccinations since at the third day and around a month later the platelet count falls due to the vaccinations?

Bet Hargreaves

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