Evaluation of hepatic and renal function in cats with chediak-higashi syndrome

Cats with the Chediak-Higashi Syndrome (CHS) have partial oculocutaneous albinism, a bleeding tendency, and enlarged cytoplasmic granules in many cell types including those in the liver and kidney. Hepatic and renal function was evaluated in six CHS and six age-matched control cats to determine if the functions of these organs were compromised by the CHS trait. Serum concentrations of alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and total bilirubin were determined to assess the status of the liver. Sulfobromophthalein retention tests were also performed. Renal function was evaluated by determination of (14)C-inulin clearance; blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine concentrations; 24-hour protein/creatinine ratios, percent clearance ratios of calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium and chloride; and urinalysis values. The CHS cats were not significantly (P > 0.05) different from the control cats in any of the above tests. Use of a non-parametric statistical test did reveal a mild difference (P = 0.047) in 24-hour protein excretion between CHS and control cats. Complete blood counts were performed, and the packed cell volume and hemoglobin concentrations were significantly lower (P< 0.05) in the CHS cats than in the control cats.