Proximal duodenal perforation in three dogs following deracoxib administration.

The purpose of this study was to describe the clinical and gross pathological findings, treatment, and outcome in three dogs receiving deracoxib that developed proximal duodenal perforation and subsequent septic peritonitis. Clinical findings were acute vomiting and anorexia following initiation of deracoxib therapy. Deracoxib dosages ranged from 2 to 3 mg/kg per os q 24 hours. In each dog, exploratory laparotomy revealed duodenal perforations approximately 1 cm orad to the major duodenal papilla. Two out of three dogs survived following exploratory laparotomy. Two of three dogs in the present case series received the approved deracoxib dosage. Dogs receiving deracoxib, even at labeled dosages, should be monitored judiciously for signs of gastrointestinal disease.