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Hypercalcemia in a dog: a challenging case.
C R Rohrer1, L A Phillips, S L Ford
1Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville 32610-0126, USA.
Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association
|February 10, 2000
Summary
Persistent hypercalcemia in dogs can be caused by the parasitic infection Heterobilharzia americana, not just cancer. A fecal exam is crucial for diagnosing this treatable cause of hypercalcemia in endemic regions.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Parasitology
- Canine Health
Background:
- Persistent hypercalcemia is a complex clinical sign in dogs, often leading to extensive diagnostic workups.
- Differential diagnoses for hypercalcemia typically include neoplasia, primary hyperparathyroidism, and renal disease.
Observation:
- An 18-month-old spayed female mixed-breed dog presented with persistent hypercalcemia.
- Initial diagnostics were inconclusive, leading to a presumptive diagnosis of occult lymphosarcoma (LSA).
- The dog was euthanized, and necropsy revealed infection with Heterobilharzia americana.
Findings:
- The definitive diagnosis at necropsy was schistosomiasis caused by Heterobilharzia americana.
- This parasitic infection was the underlying cause of the persistent hypercalcemia in this case.
- Lymphosarcoma was initially suspected but not confirmed.
Implications:
- Schistosomiasis should be considered in the differential diagnosis for canine hypercalcemia, especially in endemic areas.
- A fecal examination is recommended for all dogs presenting with unexplained hypercalcemia.
- Early diagnosis of Heterobilharzia americana infection can prevent unnecessary euthanasia and allow for appropriate treatment.