Veterinary Medicine - December 2007 - (Page 785)

sure to monitor serum albumin concentrations and the patient’s weight and muscle and coat condition. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors play a major role in treating proteinuria. A 50% reduction in urine protein/creatinine ratios indicates improvement. Patients must be monitored carefully to ensure that kidney function does not worsen while they are receiving these medications. Patients with hypertension may require additional treatment. The anticoagulant and antiplatelet effects of lowdose aspirin can also be beneficial in preventing thrombotic events. And, of course, if during your work-up an underlying infectious or noninfectious condition is found to be causing immunemediated mechanisms leading to kidney damage, direct your therapies toward eliminating that condition, if possible. Although of unproven value in managing proteinuria in dogs and cats, omega-3 fatty acid supplementation may be considered to reduce intraglomerular pressure and inflammation. April 18-21, 2008 HEAR great speakers LEARN from industry experts A FINDING NOT TO BE IGNORED If, in the past, you’ve been inclined to not worry about proteinuria in a seemingly normal patient, it’s time to start paying attention. In patients with chronic kidney disease, the risk of an adverse outcome worsens 1.5 times for every increase by 1 in a patient’s urine protein/creatinine ratio.1,2 Your clients will appreciate your proactive approach to their pets’ care. O Editors’ note: Dr. Polzin has received research sponsorship and speaking honoraria from Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Royal Canin, and Nestlé Purina; receives support for the International Renal Interest Society from Novartis; and has consulted for and received honoraria from Bayer, Pfizer, and Vétoquinol. FOCUS on meaningful sessions BENEFIT from continuing education PERFECT your clinical expertise SHARPEN your practice management skills REFERENCES 1. Jacob F, Polzin DJ, Osborne CA, et al. Evaluation of the association between initial proteinuria and morbidity rate or death in dogs with naturally occurring chronic renal failure. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005;226:393-400. 2. Syme HM, Markwell PJ, Pfeiffer D, et al. Survival of cats with naturally occurring chronic renal failure is related to severity of proteinuria. J Vet Intern Med 2006;20:528-535. REGISTER NOWat EXAMINE cutting edge technologies www.TheCVC.com 800.255.6864 ext. 6 ENJOY fun and interesting events http://www.TheCVC.com http://www.TheCVC.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Veterinary Medicine - December 2007

Veterinary Medicine - December 2007 Contents Letters Editors' Guest Thanking Our Valued Reviewers The Veterinary Medicine Interview: Dr. Joseph Harari Clinical Exposures Idea Exchange Answers to Three Commonly Asked Questions About Lyme Disease Practical Ideas for Managing Common Internal Medicine Problems A Tip for Interpreting Leptospira Species Titers Investigating Proteinuric Kidney Disease Counseling New Puppy Owners: Normal Play vs. Aggressive Tendencies 11 Guidelines for Conservatively Treating Chronic Kidney Disease CE Form Product Preview Advertiser Index Marketplace/Classifieds Mind Over Miller Merial Insert

Veterinary Medicine - December 2007

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