Acute phase protein levels in pregnancy and oestrus cycle in bitches

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the acute phase protein (serum amyloid A, C-reactive protein, haptoglobin, ceruloplasmin and fibrinogen) profiles in pregnant dogs as well as bitches at various stages of the estrus cycle and to verify possible relationship(s) among the APPs profile and hormonal status. A total of 60 bitches of various breeds were enrolled. The animals were divided into six groups. B-mode ultrasonographic scanner (concept M/C) was used for pregnancy diagnosis, involving the first and second halves of pregnancy. Proestrus, estrus, diestrus and anestrus stages of sexual cycles were differentiated by use of vaginal cytology and blood progesterone and estradiol 17-beta levels. Serum C-reactive protein (CRP), serum amyloid A (SAA), haptoglobin, ceruloplasmin and fibrinogen levels were determined. No statistically significant differences were observed between the groups with regard to the serum SAA and CRP concentrations. Haptoglobin, ceruloplasmin and fibrinogen concentrations were elevated in pregnant dogs compared to non-pregnant groups', independently from the pregnancy stage. No statistically significant differences in acute phase protein concentrations in dogs at various stages of estrus could be detected. Results of this study indicated that ceruloplasmin and fibrinogen levels may have potential importance in the diagnosis of pregnancy, and acute phase proteins may be used for monitoring the health status of the pregnant dogs.