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Hematological changes induced by Bothrops jararaca venom in dogs
I S Sano-Martins1, M L Santoro, P Morena
1Laboratório de Fisiopatologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brasil.
Summary
Dogs exhibit coagulopathy similar to humans after Bothrops jararaca venom exposure. This study confirms dogs as a viable model for studying venom-induced coagulopathy in humans.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Veterinary Medicine
- Hematology
Background:
- The mechanism of consumption coagulopathy from Bothrops jararaca envenomation is known in humans but may differ across species.
- Understanding species-specific venom effects is crucial for accurate envenomation treatment and research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical and laboratory effects of Bothrops jararaca envenomation in dogs.
- To evaluate the suitability of dogs as an animal model for studying human venom-induced coagulopathy.
Main Methods:
- Administered a sublethal dose (100 µg/kg) of Bothrops jararaca venom intravenously to dogs.
- Monitored clinical signs, hematological parameters, and coagulation profiles.
- Compared results with a control group receiving saline.
Main Results:
- Dogs developed a coagulopathy mirroring human responses, including fibrinogen depletion, consumption of coagulation factors (II, X, V), antithrombin III depletion, and moderate thrombocytopenia.
- Activated platelets were detected in circulation.
- Neutrophilic leukocytosis, lymphopenia, and monocytosis were observed; erythrocyte values remained normal.
- Erythrocyte sedimentation rate decreased significantly, correlating with fibrinogen levels.
Conclusions:
- Bothrops jararaca envenomation in dogs produces a coagulopathy similar to that seen in humans.
- Dogs serve as a relevant and effective animal model for studying human venom-induced coagulopathy.