Grant Amount: $34,160

Dr. Brendan M. Corcoran, PhD, University of Edinburgh

July 1, 2003 - June 30, 2005

Sponsor(s): Westie Foundation of America, Inc.

Breed(s): West Highland White Terrier

Disease(s): Idiopathic Pulonary Fibrosis

Abstract

A chronic respiratory condition has been noted for some time in West Highland White Terriers, and typically affects middle to old-aged dogs resulting in reduced exercise ability, respiratory difficulty and coughing. Eventually the condition results in respiratory failure and the dogs have to be euthanized. The condition develops slowly and consequently the changes are often assumed by the pet owner to be attributable to normal aging. However, on chest auscultation distinct crackling sounds are heard which are indicative of significant lung abnormality. Many veterinarians are aware of this condition and often refer to it as Westie Lung Disease. However, we have recently described this disease in more detail and have evidence to suggest it is caused by scar tissue formation within the lung. The underlying cause is unknown and so we have termed the condition Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. Because we have limited information on this disease, the aim of our proposed study is to investigate the clinical aspects of this disease with a view to improving understanding of the disease and improve diagnostic accuracy. With that information we can move forward with studies to investigate the cause and explore novel therapeutic approaches to management of the disease.