Patent ductus arteriosus and pulmonary hypertension in related Pembroke Welsh corgis.

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and pulmonary hypertension were diagnosed in 5 related 12- to 24-week-old Pembroke Welsh Corgi dogs. A ductus diverticulum and small PDA were diagnosed in the pups' sire. Multiple factors likely contribute to the early development of pulmonary hypertension, including pulmonary hyperperfusion, genetic predisposition, and atmospheric pressure. The dogs of this report had a strong genetic predisposition to PDA, had large-diameter PDA associated with pulmonary hyperperfusion, and lived at altitudes of 5,000 to 7,000 feet above sea level. This combination of factors likely had an additive influence on the pulmonary vasculature, resulting in accelerated development of pulmonary hypertension in these dogs. Early recognition and treatment of PDA is critical in this setting before the development of severe pulmonary hypertension and uncorrectable disease.