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Homocysteine in dogs with systemic inflammatory response syndrome
B E Patterson1, J W Barr, G T Fosgate
1Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
The Journal of Small Animal Practice
|November 29, 2013
Summary
Serum homocysteine concentrations were significantly lower in critically ill dogs with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) or sepsis compared to healthy dogs. These changes were not linked to B-vitamin levels.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Biochemistry
- Critical Care
Background:
- Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and sepsis are critical conditions in dogs.
- Homocysteine is a biomarker implicated in various diseases in humans.
- B-vitamins like folate and cobalamin are essential cofactors in homocysteine metabolism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare serum homocysteine concentrations in healthy dogs versus dogs with SIRS or sepsis.
- To investigate the relationship between homocysteine levels and commonly measured B-vitamins (folate, cobalamin) in these dogs.
Main Methods:
- Serum samples were collected from 51 healthy dogs (control) and dogs diagnosed with non-infectious SIRS or sepsis on Day 1 of hospitalization.
- Measurements included serum homocysteine, folate, and cobalamin concentrations.
- Homocysteine levels were compared between groups, and correlations with B-vitamins and disease severity scores were assessed.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant difference in homocysteine concentrations was observed between healthy dogs and those with SIRS or sepsis.
- Serum homocysteine concentrations were significantly lower in sick dogs compared to the healthy control group.
- Homocysteine levels did not correlate with folate, cobalamin concentrations, or APPLEfast severity scores.
Conclusions:
- Serum homocysteine concentrations differ significantly between healthy dogs and those with SIRS or sepsis.
- Unlike in humans, homocysteine levels were lower in critically ill dogs.
- The clinical significance of altered homocysteine concentrations in critically ill dogs remains undetermined.
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