Ascites of hepatic origin in a female beagle pup: Diagnosis, treatment and management

Abstract

A three months old female Beagle puppy was presented with a history of enlarged abdomen, inappetence and weakness since two weeks. Clinical examination revealed fever, fluid thrill on palpation of abdomen, dyspnoea, dehydration, rough body coat, pale mucous membranes and tachycardia was evident. Haematological findings revealed anemia, neutrophilia along with thrombocytopenia. Serum biochemical parameters evinced increased levels of ALT (260 U/L), AST (186 U/L) and ALKP (425 U/L) but decreased in total protein (3.2 g/dl) and blood glucose (52 mg/dl) level suggesting hepatic involvement. Furthermore, abdominal ultrasonography revealed accumulation of fluid in abdominal cavity with hyperechoic hepatic structure. Abdominal radiograph revealed characteristic ‘Ground glass’ appearance over abdomen. The haemoprotozoal and fecal examination showed negative result. Hence, the puppy was diagnosed as ascites of hepatic origin resulting hypoproteinemia and the condition was successfully managed with fluid, antibiotics, diuretics and liver tonics along with protein rich and but salt free diet. The significance of diagnostic protocol, haematobiochemistry and treatment has been discussed.