Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in West Highland Terriers
12-year-old West Highland White Terrier with progressive exercise intolerance and tachypnoea for months and an occasional cough. Auscultation reveals diffuse dry inspiratory crackles, like opening Velcro. Echocardiography shows no left heart disease but signs of pulmonary hypertension.
Which statement is correct?
chevron_right Show answer and explanation
A. It is a progressive disease without curative treatment; it is diagnosed by high-resolution CT after ruling out other causes and management is palliative
Correct. Management includes weight control, avoiding heat and exertion, sildenafil if there is pulmonary hypertension and, in some cases, antitussives or steroids with variable response.
B. The crackles indicate pulmonary oedema, so furosemide is the treatment of choice
Without left heart disease there is no cardiogenic oedema. Dry crackles are caused by stiff alveoli opening due to fibrosis and do not respond to diuretics.
C. Prednisolone at immunosuppressive doses achieves remission in most cases
Response to steroids is poor and inconsistent; high doses add adverse effects (panting, weight gain, thromboembolic risk) without halting the fibrosis.
D. The crackles indicate pneumonia and a 4–6 week antibiotic course is indicated
There is no fever or other sign of infection; the slow, progressive course in an older Westie is typical of pulmonary fibrosis.
lightbulb Key takeaway
Velcro-like crackles in an older terrier with exercise intolerance: think of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Pulmonary hypertension is a common complication that worsens the prognosis. Distinguish it from chronic bronchitis, also common in Westies, and from heart disease.
Test yourself with 10 random questions
Respiratory system · 100 questions, a different test every time
Related questions
Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.