Interesting Cases

Why Pre-anesthetic Profiles are Important

Pierre is a six-year-old standard poodle who came in for a teeth cleaning. A pre-anesthetic blood profile indicated a moderate elevation of the liver enzymes. Suspecting an underlying liver problem his procedure was postponed.

Further testing uncovered more abnormal liver values. In order to identify the cause of his liver disease we performed an ultrasound. The ultrasound allowed visualization of the liver, gall bladder and other abdominal organs.

Using the ultrasound machine we used a special biopsy instrument to collect a liver biopsy.

Biopsy results indicated a bacterial infection and antibiotics were dispensed. Pierre remained symptom free. However, his blood values did not improve.

The decision was made to perform a second liver biopsy via exploratory surgery due to Pierre's weight loss and early symptoms of liver failure. Larger liver samples were collected and submitted for culture, biopsy and toxicology testing.

A diagnosis of chronic active hepatitis was made. This is a condition is caused by an abnormal immune system destruction of a pets normal liver. If left untreated liver failure and death will occur.

Two immune suppressive medications, (prednisone and Immuran), a special diet, and antioxidant therapy has stabilized his condition. Today he is back to normal and thankful that his pre-dental/pre-anesthetic blood profile was done.

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