Comparisons between endoscopic and histologic evaluation of the gastrointestinal tract in dogs and cats: 75 cases (1984-1987).

Observations made during endoscopic evaluation of the stomach, duodenum, and colon of 58 dogs and 17 cats with a history of regurgitation, vomiting, and/or diarrhea were compared with results of histologic examination of tissues obtained during the procedures. Endoscopic observations included normal mucosa, alternations in mucosal color and texture, and luminal masses. Although endoscopy alone is a useful technique for detecting alterations of the gastrointestinal mucosa, histologic assessment of tissues obtained is necessary to confirm either an inflammatory or a neoplastic process.