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Pseudohyperchloremia associated with bromide intoxication in a goat herd
Summary
Bromide intoxication in goats can cause pseudohyperchloremia and a negative anion gap. This occurs because bromide interferes with lab tests, leading to falsely high chloride levels.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary medicine
- Toxicology
- Clinical pathology
Background:
- Bromide intoxication is a potential toxicological concern in animals.
- Accurate electrolyte measurements are crucial for diagnosing metabolic disturbances.
Observation:
- Goats with suspected bromide intoxication presented with pseudohyperchloremia.
- A negative anion gap was consistently observed in affected animals.
Findings:
- Bromide interferes with ion-specific electrodes used in serum chloride analysis.
- This interference leads to falsely elevated serum chloride concentrations.
- The anion gap is calculated as (Na+ + K+) - (Cl- + HCO3-), and bromide elevates Cl- without a corresponding increase in other measured cations or anions, resulting in a negative value.
Implications:
- Consider bromide intoxication in animals exhibiting progressive neurologic signs.
- Elevated serum chloride and a low or negative anion gap are key indicators.
- This highlights the importance of considering analytical interferences in clinical diagnostics.