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Vitamin D-dependent rickets type 2 in a four-month-old cat
C Alan Schreiner1, Larry A Nagode
1Cascade Veterinary Specialists, 660 NW Gilman Blvd, Issaquah, WA 98027, USA.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|February 5, 2003
Summary
A cat diagnosed with vitamin D-dependent rickets type 2 showed improvement with calcitriol and calcium supplements. Long-term treatment allowed the cat to maintain normal calcium levels, even after discontinuing supplements.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Endocrinology
- Nutritional Diseases
Background:
- Vitamin D-dependent rickets type 2 (VDDR2) is a rare genetic disorder affecting calcium and phosphate metabolism.
- It is characterized by resistance to the effects of vitamin D, leading to severe rickets and hypocalcemia.
- Accurate diagnosis and management are crucial for affected animals.
Observation:
- A 4-month-old domestic shorthair cat presented with lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle tremors, and mydriasis.
- Initial laboratory results indicated hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, and elevated intact parathormone and calcitriol levels.
- These clinical and biochemical findings were consistent with VDDR2.
Findings:
- The cat was treated with oral calcium and calcitriol supplements.
- Following treatment, the cat remained clinically normal for 18 months.
- Serum calcium concentrations normalized and were maintained within reference limits, even after discontinuing oral calcium supplementation.
Implications:
- This case highlights the successful management of vitamin D-dependent rickets type 2 in a feline patient.
- It demonstrates the efficacy of calcitriol and calcium supplementation in correcting metabolic abnormalities.
- The findings suggest that long-term monitoring and tailored treatment can lead to a positive prognosis for cats with VDDR2.