Clinical, Haemato-Biochemical and Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Ascites of Hepatic Origin in Dogs
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48165/ijvsbt.22.3.23Keywords:
Ascites in dogs, Hepatic disease, Serum Ascites Albumin Gradient (SAAG), UltrasonographyAbstract
This study evaluated ascites of hepatic origin in dogs through haemato-biochemical profiling, ultrasonography and peritoneal fluid analysis to establish reliable diagnostic indicators. Twenty-four dogs with confirmed hepatic ascites presented to the Veterinary Clinical Complex, Veterinary College, Shivamogga (January-June 2025) were included in the study. Clinical signs included abdominal distension (100%), anorexia (83.3%), epigastric pain (50%) and diarrhoea (45.8%). Haematology revealed significant reductions in haemoglobin, packed cell volume and erythrocyte count, with leukocytosis, while platelet counts remained unchanged. Biochemical analysis showed marked elevations in ALT, ALP, GGT, LDH and C-reactive protein, with non-significant decrease in total protein, albumin and globulin. Ascitic fluid was typically clear, low-protein transudate with serum-ascites albumin gradient (SAAG) >1.1 g/dL, confirming hepatic involvement. Cytology revealed mesothelial cells and leukocytes. Ultrasonography consistently demonstrated peritoneal effusion, hepatomegaly, altered echogenicity and gallbladder wall changes. The integration of clinical, laboratory and imaging findings provides a comprehensive diagnostic framework for characterizing hepatic ascites in dogs, enhancing accuracy in differentiating it from other etiologies.
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