Multiple endocrine abnormalities in Basenji dogs with renal tubular dysfunction

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Nephrology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Renal tubular dysfunction in Basenji dogs presents with complex clinical signs.
• Previous studies suggest a genetic predisposition to kidney issues in this breed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the multifaceted renal, metabolic, and endocrine abnormalities in Basenji dogs with renal tubular dysfunction.
• To explore the potential link between hypercortisolism and urine concentrating defects in affected dogs.

Main Methods:

• Clinical and laboratory evaluation of three Basenji dogs with diagnosed renal tubular dysfunction.
• Assessment of urine concentrating ability, acid-base balance, electrolytes, glomerular filtration rate, and hormonal levels (ACTH, aldosterone, thyroxine, gastrin).
• Histopathological examination of thyroid glands in affected dogs.

Main Results:

• All dogs exhibited hyposthenuria, diminished urine concentrating ability (nephrogenic diabetes insipidus), metabolic acidosis, hyperchloremia, and reduced glomerular filtration rate.
• Exaggerated adrenocorticotropin test response and secondary hyperaldosteronism were noted.
• Decreased thyroxine values correlated with thyroid histopathology in two dogs.
• Gastropathy, hypergastrinemia, and enteritis were identified in some dogs.

Conclusions:

• Basenji dogs with renal tubular dysfunction present with a significant urine concentrating defect.
• This defect may be secondary to hypercortisolism, suggesting a broader endocrine involvement.
• The findings highlight the complex pathophysiology of renal tubular dysfunction in this breed.