Characterization of Renal Function in Dogs

Abstract

By filtration, reabsortion and excretion, the kidneys maintain homeostasis in living organs. Dogs with renal injuries have theses processes affected, which alter homeostasis. This results in a history of kidney failure. Parameters were evaluated that estimate filtration, reabsortion and renal excretion in three groups of dogs, related to serum creatinine concentration, urinary protein to creatinine ratio, creatinine clearance, fractional excretion (FE) of calcium, phosphorus, sodium and magnesium, as well as the serum profile of these electrolytes. The G1 group consisted of ten dogs with no alteration in renal function parameters; fifteen dogs with compromised renal function were divided into two groups (G2 and G3, respectively, based on the phases described by IRIS 2009). The groups were compared based on the Kruskal-Wallis test, followed by the Dunn test. G3 dogs showed an increase in serum concentrations of phosphorus, sodium and magnesium, compared to G1 and G2. G1 and G2 dogs showed a decrease in the fractional excretion of electrolytes, which differed from G3 dogs. These results suggest that dogs with an affected renal function present alterationsthat depend on the severity and stage of the disease. These alterations were found in the FE of electrolytes in different groups; in addition, Mg and were shown to be more sensitive after detecting early compromise in renal function.