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Published on: July 28, 2018
Maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in heart failure
1Department of Clinical Sciences, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, 4700 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA. teresa_defrancesco@ncsu.edu
Summary
Advanced heart failure in animals causes fluid and electrolyte imbalances. This review covers their pathophysiology and therapeutic strategies for veterinary practitioners.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Cardiology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Advanced heart failure (AHF) in animals frequently leads to complex hemodynamic, fluid, and electrolyte disturbances.
- These derangements significantly impact patient prognosis and therapeutic management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide veterinary practitioners with a comprehensive overview of the pathophysiology of common fluid and electrolyte abnormalities in animals with heart failure.
- To highlight specific clinical signs associated with these imbalances.
- To discuss effective therapeutic interventions for managing these critical conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of current knowledge on fluid and electrolyte derangements in canine and feline heart failure.
- Analysis of pathophysiological mechanisms underlying common imbalances.
- Evaluation of established and emerging therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Detailed explanation of the pathophysiology of key fluid and electrolyte abnormalities (e.g., hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, edema) in heart failure.
- Correlation of pathophysiological processes with observable clinical signs in affected animals.
- Discussion of evidence-based treatment options, including pharmacological and supportive care.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the pathophysiology of fluid and electrolyte derangements is crucial for managing animals with advanced heart failure.
- Tailored therapeutic interventions can effectively address these abnormalities, improving patient outcomes.
- This review serves as a practical guide for clinicians managing complex cardiac cases.
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