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Endotoxn-induced nonthyroidal illness in dogs
David L Panciera1, Jerry W Ritchey, Daniel L Ward
1Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA.
American Journal of Veterinary Research
|February 27, 2003
Summary
Endotoxin administration in dogs caused thyroid function test alterations, mimicking nonthyroidal illness. This suggests impaired thyroid hormone secretion and metabolism, requiring caution when interpreting thyroid tests post-illness.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Endocrinology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Nonthyroidal illness syndrome (NTIS) in dogs presents with altered thyroid function tests.
- The role of endotoxin in inducing these changes is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of endotoxin administration on thyroid function tests and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) activity in healthy dogs.
Main Methods:
- Six healthy adult male dogs received intravenous endotoxin every 12 hours for 84 hours.
- Thyroid hormones (T4, T3, rT3, fT4) and TSH were measured pre- and post-treatment.
- Serum TNF-alpha activity was also assessed.
Main Results:
- Endotoxin caused significant decreases in serum T3 and T4 concentrations and an increase in rT3.
- Serum TNF-alpha activity increased transiently post-administration.
- Thyroid function test abnormalities persisted for several weeks.
Conclusions:
- Endotoxin administration effectively models thyroid function alterations seen in canine NTIS.
- Findings suggest impaired thyroid hormone secretion and metabolism due to endotoxemia.
- Interpreting serum T4 concentrations requires caution in dogs recovering from illness.