Abstract
A six-year old mixed-breed bitch was presented for chronic ascites. A diagnostic work-up was crafted to ascertain the cause of fluid accumulation in the peritoneal cavity. Clinical biochemistry tests for status of the liver and kidneys were performed. Elevations in absolute concentrations of the liver enzymes aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were useful in evaluation of hepatocellular damage associated with right-sided heart failure. Normal levels of serum albumin and bilirubin, however, underscored the preserved functional capacity of the liver in spite of hepatocellular damage. Elevation of blood urea nitrogen, but not creatinine, was significant in appraisal of low cardiac output chronic renal failure resulting from left-sided heart failure. Increase in blood urea nitrogen was a valuable prognostic indicator of subsequent death resulting from biventricular heart failure, in contrast to serum bilirubin or albumin concentrations. Clinical biochemical profiles for liver and kidney functions in heart failure patients allow for estimation of the extent of hepatic and renal complications. Renal dysfunction carries a grave prognosis.
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The co-operation of the owner of the dog and staff at the University of Zimbabwe Veterinary Teaching Hospital is sincerely acknowledged.
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Biochemical assays for hepatic and renal functions were funded by Diagnopath (Pvt) Ltd.
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Admission and management of the patient were done in accordance with contemporary veterinary practices. All applicable international, national and/or institutional guidelines for the care and use of animals were followed.
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Musara, C., Tivapasi, M.T. Clinical biochemistry profile of biventricular heart failure in a mixed-breed bitch. Comp Clin Pathol 26, 1407–1411 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00580-017-2562-8
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00580-017-2562-8