Effects of parathyroidectomy on induced renal failure in dogs

To determine the effects of parathyroid hormone (PTH) depletion on dogs with induced chronic renal failure.

2 groups of 26 mixed-breed dogs of both sexes (13 were parathyroidectomized [PTX] and 13 had sham surgery).

After surgical reduction of renal mass and PTX, dogs were selected for a 24-month period of study and monitored for clinical, hematologic, blood biochemical, and organ function status. On development of uremia or after 24 months, dogs were euthanatized, and tissues were examined.

Higher survival rate and smaller decrement in renal function (glomerular filtration rate) were observed in PTX dogs, compared with those that had sham surgery, but values did not reach statistical significance. The PTX dogs remained hypocalcemic during the study and had lower serum Ca2+ X P product values. Regardless of parathyroid state, survivors and fatalities could be separated on the basis of serum Ca2+ X P product values. Parathyroidectomy did not prevent renal deposition of calcium, and renal lesions were poorly correlated with renal cortical calcium concentration. Abnormalities reported in dogs with renal failure, which were attributed to PTH (glucose intolerance, pulmonary hypertension), were not observed in PTX dogs or those that had sham surgery.

PTX had beneficial effects, but these were mediated via changes in mineral homeostasis rather than via direct effects of PTH. Results attributable to PTX were similar to those previously obtained by dietary restriction of phosphate intake.