Assessment of hepatic function in canine parvovirus affected dogs

Abstract

Canine Parvovirus (CPV) remains one of the most significant viral pathogens affecting young dogs worldwide, causing acute haemorrhagic gastroenteritis with systemic complications. The CPV affects rapidly dividing cells of gastrointestinal tract, bone marrow, heart and liver. The present study investigated the haematological and serum biochemical alterations in 36 CPV infected dogs below one year of age, with special emphasis on liver function test (LFT). Haematological evaluation indicated leucopenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia indicating viral destruction of bone marrow precursors and intestinal haemorrhage. Biochemical alterations included elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP), hypoproteinemia, hypoalbuminemia, hypoglycemia, hyperammonemia and alterations in lipid profile, reflecting systemic inflammation and secondary hepatic dysfunction. The study highlights the importance of LFT in CPV infected dogs and need for supportive therapy.