Biochemistry case challenges (Proceedings)

Biochemical profiles may provide a definitive diagnosis in some cases while in other cases the information is useful mostly in ruling in or ruling out differential diagnoses. A baseline complete biochemical profile may be all that's needed for many patients but additional tests are indicated in some cases.

We will discuss some interesting, challenging cases we've had in which biochemical findings were important in making a diagnosis and in monitoring response to treatment.

1.) Maggie

     • 9 year old spayed female Labrador retriever mix dog.

     • Presented to referring DVM with anorexia, lethargy, drooling for one week.

     • Physical examination showed mass on left chest wall and forelimb edema. Left prescapular and left popliteal lymph nodes enlarged.

2.) Rusty

     • 16 year old neutered male domestic long-haired cat.

     • Presented for anorexia for two days and weight loss of 2 pounds over the last 2 months. Icterus noted at referring veterinarian.

     • Presented with 2 day history of not eating and drinking. Appeared icteric.

3. ) Gypsy

     • 6 year old spayed female English setter

     • Presented for watery diarrhea for at least 4 months, weight loss though appetite is normal, polyuria, polydipsia.

4.) Itty Bitty

     • 12 year old castrated male domestic shorthair cat.

     • Diagnosed with diabetes mellitus 4 months earlier; being treated with e U insulin twice a day; still PU/PD, lethargic and losing weight.

5.) Maddie

     • 13 year old spayed female domestic shorthair cat

     • Several month history of polydipsia, intermittent vomiting, recently anorectic

6.) Sasha

     • 10 year old spayed female Welsh corgi

     • Presented for lethargy, anorexia, and vomiting. On physical exam, she was very thin.

7.) Alex

     • 12 year old spayed female Boxer

     • Presented for poor appetite and lethargy for at least one month with intermittent vomiting. On physical exam, she's thin with normal temperature, pulse and respiration.

8. ) Yahtzee

     • 11 year old intact male miniature Schnauzer

     • Presented for intermittent vomiting and diarrhea for the last two weeks. On physical exam, he's overweight, with a tense, painful abdomen.