Multiple endocrine abnormalities in Basenji dogs with renal tubular dysfunction

Three Basenji dogs with renal tubular dysfunction were studied. Hyposthenuria and diminished urine concentrating ability, indicative of nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, were documented. Metabolic acidosis, hyperchloremia, and reduction in glomerular filtration rate also were detected in all dogs. In addition, an exaggerated response to the adrenocorticotropin test and hyperaldosteronism, believed to be secondary to decreased effective circulating blood volume, were detected in all 3 dogs. Thyroxine values were decreased in all dogs and could be correlated with histopathologic changes of the thyroid gland in 2 dogs. Gastropathy and hypergastrinemia were identified in 2 dogs. Diffuse lymphocytic-plasmacytic enteritis was evident in 2 dogs. It was concluded that a urine concentrating defect that may be secondary to hypercortisolism exists in Basenji dogs with renal tubular dysfunction.