Management of diabetic mellitus induced nephropathy by intermittent hemodialysis in a dog

Abstract

A 7-year-old male Labrador retriever with chronic diabetes mellitus managed on Isophane insulin was presented with lethargy, anorexia, vomiting, halitosis, melena, and weight loss since last 1 week due to recent mismanagement. Initial therapy at field level had failed to improve the dog's condition. Clinical, hemato-biochemical and routine urine evaluation revealed anemia, neutrophilia, thrombocytopenia, elevated BUN, creatinine, phosphorus, blood glucose, acidic urine (pH 6.0), proteinuria, glycosuria, and RBCs in urine. Radiography, abdominal ultrasound and cardiac echocardiography indicated mild broncho-interstitial lung pattern, hyperechoic kidneys, and left ventricular hypertrophy. Urine culture showed Escherichia coli. The dog underwent intermittent hemodialysis (IHD) for high uremia and suspected acute diabetic nephropathy. Despite significant improvements in uremia and electrolytes after three IHD sessions, the dog developed a high-grade fever and collapsed, likely due to sepsis.