Red Blood Cell Changes and Vitamin Levels in Dogs with Diarrhea
Author Information
Author(s): Ginoudis Argyrios, Ioannidou Anna Maria, Pardali Dimitra, Tsikna Asteria, Polizopoulou Zoe
Primary Institution: Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Hypothesis
This study explores the relationship between cobalamin and folate concentrations with hematologic parameters in dogs with chronic diarrhea.
Conclusion
Cobalamin is important for red blood cell health in dogs, while folate appears to have a lesser role.
Supporting Evidence
- Serum cobalamin was significantly correlated with RBC, HGB, HCT, and MCV.
- Anisocytosis was significantly correlated with hypocobalaminemia.
- Acanthocytosis correlated with normal cobalamin levels.
- No correlation was found between serum folate and erythrocytic parameters.
Takeaway
This study found that low levels of a vitamin called cobalamin can affect the size and number of red blood cells in dogs with diarrhea, but folate doesn't seem to matter as much.
Methodology
The study included 47 adult dogs with chronic diarrhea, measuring their blood counts and vitamin levels to find correlations.
Potential Biases
Potential confounding factors include other diseases affecting red blood cell production.
Limitations
The study could not determine the specific causes of diarrhea in many dogs, and serum vitamin levels may not reflect tissue reserves.
Participant Demographics
47 dogs (25 female, 22 male; median age: 5 years old).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.002 for anisocytosis correlation with cobalamin.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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