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[Nalidixic acid intoxication in two pregnant bitches (author's transl)]
Tijdschrift Voor Diergeneeskunde
|September 1, 1978
Summary
Nalidixic acid, used for gastrointestinal decontamination in dogs with cyclic neutropenia, led to fatal toxic hepatic necrosis. This antibiotic treatment proved lethal, causing liver failure and death in two treated dogs.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Toxicology
- Canine Health
Background:
- Cyclic neutropenia in dogs necessitates protection against bacterial infections, especially during neutropenic episodes.
- Selective gastrointestinal decontamination using antibiotics is a strategy to minimize infection risk.
- Nalidixic acid was administered to two pregnant bitches with cyclic neutropenia for decontamination.
Observation:
- The two treated dogs developed jaundice and seizures prior to death.
- Both dogs died 14 days after initiating nalidixic acid treatment.
- Histopathology revealed toxic hepatic necrosis, characterized by severe centrilobular hemorrhage and hepatocyte loss.
Findings:
- Nalidixic acid administration resulted in fatal toxic hepatic necrosis in the treated dogs.
- Hemorrhagic lesions were observed in multiple organs.
- Further investigations supported nalidixic acid as the cause of death.
Implications:
- Nalidixic acid is potentially toxic and poses a significant risk for dogs, particularly those with cyclic neutropenia.
- This study highlights the critical need for careful drug selection and monitoring in veterinary medicine.
- Alternative, safer decontamination protocols may be required for managing cyclic neutropenia in dogs.