Library
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Serum biochemistry measures the amount of enzymes, proteins, sugar, electrolytes, minerals, and hormones found in the liquid portion of the blood. Testing for these substances provides information about the body’s organs and tissues, as well as the metabolic state of the animal. This article provides general information on the most routinely measured factors in serum and common reasons for abnormal readings.
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Electrolytes are the salts and metallic components that are dissolved within the blood serum (serum is the liquid portion of blood). The electrolytes of greatest clinical importance are sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, phosphorus, and calcium. It is important to detect changes in electrolyte concentrations so that these changes can be treated before the situation becomes severe or life-threatening.
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Serum iron tests are indicated when the results from a complete blood count (CBC) indicate that your pet is anemic (meaning they have decreased red blood cell numbers and/or decreased hemoglobin) and that the red blood cells are microcytic (smaller than usual) and hypochromic (contain less hemoglobin than usual). Tests to assess iron deficiency require a single blood sample that is sent to a veterinary referral laboratory.
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Serum contains many proteins that perform diverse functions, which include providing cellular nutrition, defending against infections, playing a role in inflammation, and acting as hormones or enzymes. Protein electrophoresis is a specialized test that analyzes specific groups of proteins in the blood serum and measures how much of each group of protein is present. The results of the analysis help diagnose specific diseases, such as infection and some types of cancer.
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Ophthalmic autologous serum is a blood-derived product used to treat corneal ulcers in animals. Ophthalmic autologous serum is part of the blood and is collected directly from the patient. It is in liquid form.
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The "ancestral diet" for dogs and cats is a broad term for a feeding plan that generally mimics what a wolf or wild cat might consume in the wilderness. In practice, there is great variability in nutrients, ingredients, and safety considerations for food sold or produced as an ancestral diet. This article reviews these considerations, so that pet owners, along with their veterinary care teams, can make informed decisions for their pets.
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Sildenafil (brand name: Viagra®) is a vasodilator used off label to treat high blood pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs (pulmonary hypertension) in dogs and sometimes cats. It is also used to treat megaesophagus. In cattle, it may be useful in treating uterine conditions such as endometritis.
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Silver sulfadiazine topical is an antimicrobial used to treat skin infections and burns in cats, dogs, and exotic pets. It is used off label in veterinary medicine. Silver sulfadiazine topical comes in a topical cream.
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Simethicone is an anti-gas agent used to help treat pain, bloating, and flatulence caused by excessive gas in the gastrointestinal tract of cats, dogs, and other animals. It works as an anti-foaming agent by reducing surface tension on gas bubbles.
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Hepatic Lipidosis in Cats (Fatty Liver Syndrome in Cats)
El síndrome del hígado graso felino (SHGF) también se conoce con el nombre de lipidosis hepática felina. Esta enfermedad es única en gatos y es una de las enfermedades hepáticas más comunes en ellos.
