​​Evaluation of Hematological and Serum Biochemical Alterations in Dogs Affected with Congestive Heart Failure

Abstract

Background: Congestive heart failure (CHF) is common disorder of dogs that occur most frequently as a result of Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), Degenerative Mitral Valve Disease and pericardial diseases. An early diagnosis can be carried out through the use of specific diagnostic techniques such as x-rays, echocardiography etc. The goal of this study was to see if dogs with CHF go through any substantial alterations in their hematology or serum biochemistry. Methods: The current investigation was conducted during the period April, 2020 to April 2021 at Veterinary Clinical Complex, Khanapara, Assam. Thirty four (n=34) dogs with CHF confirmed by echocardiography and eight (n=8) healthy dogs were considered for the study. Blood samples from all selected dogs were subjected to routine hematological and serum biochemical examination. Result: The hematological assessment revealed no significant alterations. During the course of the study, there were significant alterations in the serum biochemical parameters viz. LDH, BUN, creatinine, AST, ALT, total serum protein, albumin and albumin: globulin ratio. Findings of the study revealed that hematology and biochemistry were more useful in ruling out CHF or in identifying concurrent diseases than diagnosing CHF itself.