References
Small animal Review
Abstract
Summary:
This issue's Small Animal Review features studies that seek to answer the long-standing question of the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in preclinical myxomatous mitral valve disease. Previous recommendations have suggested they are beneficial for use in dogs before they present with clinical signs, if cardiomegaly was present on radiographic or ultrasonographic examination. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses are considered the highest form of evidence and they can be helpful in answering questions when single trials do not have sufficient power to be conclusive.samples in measuring exposure to aromatic amines.
Donati et al (2022) gathered all the available information on the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEis) in preclinical myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) in dogs. They performed a literature search using Medline, LILACS and CAB abstract databases and included studies that assessed the efficacy and adverse effects of using ACEis as part of the management of preclinical MMVD in dogs.
Four randomised clinical studies were included, the analysis of which showed that ACEis appeared to be safe in this setting, although there appeared to be little difference in the risk of developing congestive heart failure whether or not the drugs were used (the relative risk being 1.03 with a 95% confidence interval of 0.87–1.23). There also appeared to be little difference in rates of cardiovascular related and all-cause mortality (relative risks 1.01 and 0.93 respectively).
The ranges of error suggest that while it is possible ACEis may reduce the risk of developing congestive heart failure, it is almost equally likely that they actually increase the risk of developing heart failure. The authors concluded that administering ACEis to dogs with preclinical MMVD makes little to no difference to the risk of developing congestive heart failure, or the risk of cardiovascular or all-cause mortality.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting UK-VET Companion Animal and reading some of our peer-reviewed content for veterinary professionals. To continue reading this article, please register today.