High-sodium crystalloid solution for treatment of hypernatremia in a Vietnamese pot-bellied pig

An 11-month-old female Vietnamese pot-bellied pig was examined for severe dehydration and neurologic signs including disorientation, ataxia, blindness, and involuntary twitching of the muscles of the neck and head. Biochemical analyses of serum revealed hypernatremia, hyperchloremia, hyperkalemia, azotemia, hyperphosphatemia, hyperalbuminemia, and high activities of aspartate transaminase and creatine kinase. A diagnosis of salt toxicosis/water deprivation was made. Medical management consisted of intravenous administration of a high-sodium crystalloid solution, anti-inflammatory drugs, and other supportive care. Sodium concentration of fluids administered intravenously was adjusted to be slightly less than the pig's serum sodium concentration so that the serum sodium concentration was reduced gradually over 48 hours. Resolution of clinical signs was rapid and the pig was discharged after 8 days of hospitalization. Fourteen days after the initial examination, the pig appeared healthy except for visual deficits. Historically, prognosis with conventional treatment of salt toxicosis/water deprivation is poor; however, this alternative approach to treating this condition appears promising.