Christoforaki S. Companion Animal Clinic, Unit of Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.
Konstantinidis A.O. Companion Animal Clinic, Unit of Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Pardali D. Diagnostic Laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Soubasis N. Companion Animal Clinic, Unit of Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Adamama-Moraitou K.K. Companion Animal Clinic, Unit of Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Introduction
Primary or Idiopathic (IH) hyperlipidemia is common in Miniature Schnauzers and is characterized by moderate or severe fasting hypertriglyceridemia with or without concurrent hypercholesterolemia. The aim of this report is to present the diagnosis and treatment of IH in a Miniature Schnauzer.
Clinical case
An 8.5-years-old, sprayed female, Miniature Schnauzer presented with a history of intermittent anorexia, vomiting, large bowel diarrhea, and hypertriglyceridemia despite being on an ultra lowfat diet. Clinical and laboratory examination revealed only severe hypertriglyceridemia and mildly elevated serum liver enzymes activity (ALP, ALT). All possible causes of hyperlipidemia were excluded.
Results
Diagnosis of IH of Miniature Schnauzers was established. The dog treated with fenofibrate (10 mg/ kg; SID) in combination with an ultra low-fat diet. Triglyceride concentrations normalized shortly after fenofibrate initiation. The dog experienced several adverse effects (anorexia, regurgitations, vomiting and large bowel diarrhea) which resolved upon discontinuation of treatment. Dose reduction of fenofibrate (2.5 mg/kg; SID) was sufficient to control triglyceride levels without experiencing any side effects.
Conclusions
This is the first case of a Miniature Schnauzer with hypertriglyceridemia in Greece and IH should be included in the differential diagnosis. Fenofibrate can cause several side effects; however, it is effective in lower than indicated doses.
References
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