Diseases of the Kidneys and Urinary Tract in Small Animals

A special issue of Veterinary Sciences (ISSN 2306-7381). This special issue belongs to the section "Veterinary Internal Medicine".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 August 2022) | Viewed by 25623

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, College Station, TX, USA
Interests: canine chronic kidney disease; proteinuria; renal biomarkers
Friendship Hospital For Animals, Washington, DC, USA
Interests: acute kidney injury; extracorporeal renal replacement; glomerular disease

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Guest Editor
Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
Interests: nephropathology; glomerular disease; kidney maldevelopment

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Over the past 15 years, our understanding of veterinary nephrology and urology has blossomed with advances in diagnostics, genetics, and clinical therapy. This has corresponded with an increase in dog and cat owners seeking advanced care for their pet as well as the recognition of the importance of a One Health initiative. Through these developments, nephrology and urology issues have emerged as frequent health concerns in dogs and cats.

Comprehensive evaluation of kidney biopsies using advanced diagnostic modalities by a trained nephropathologist, along with the identification of breed-associated genetic mutations have changed the landscape of veterinary nephrology and highlighted its high level of translation with human medicine. Novel biomarkers have been incorporated into diagnostic workflows for the diagnosis and monitoring of disease. With advances in imaging and interventional nephrology and urology, outcomes for patients with previously difficult to treat conditions are improving. There is also a growing community of researchers and clinicians working together to establish centers of excellence and provide advanced training.

The aim of this Special Issue is to highlight advances in the understanding of the diagnosis, pathology, genetics, and treatment of dogs and cats with diseases of the kidneys and urinary tract.

Dr. Mary B. Nabity
Dr. JD Foster
Dr. Rachel Cianciolo
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • nephropathology
  • glomerular disease
  • renal biomarkers
  • urinary tract

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

8 pages, 511 KiB  
Article
Prevalence and Predictors of Radiographically Apparent Upper Urinary Tract Urolithiasis in Eight Dog Breeds Predisposed to Calcium Oxalate Urolithiasis and Mixed Breed Dogs
by Alexis M. Hoelmer, Jody P. Lulich, Aaron K. Rendahl and Eva Furrow
Vet. Sci. 2022, 9(6), 283; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci9060283 - 9 Jun 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2403
Abstract
Data on upper urinary tract (UUT) uroliths in dogs are important to understanding their etiology. The aim of this retrospective case-control study was to determine the prevalence and identify predictors of radiographically apparent UUT uroliths in dog breeds at increased risk for calcium [...] Read more.
Data on upper urinary tract (UUT) uroliths in dogs are important to understanding their etiology. The aim of this retrospective case-control study was to determine the prevalence and identify predictors of radiographically apparent UUT uroliths in dog breeds at increased risk for calcium oxalate uroliths (CaOx risk breeds) and mixed breed dogs. Radiologist reports of three-view abdominal radiographs were reviewed from 251 purebred dogs of 8 CaOx risk breeds and 68 mixed breed dogs. UUT uroliths were more common in CaOx risk breeds than mixed breed dogs (23% versus 6%, respectively; OR = 4.8, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.7–18.9, p < 0.001). UUT uroliths were more common in dogs with lower urinary tract (LUT) uroliths (predominantly calcium-containing) than those without (41% versus 5%, respectively; OR = 13.6, 95% CI 6.3–33.1, p < 0.001), and LUT uroliths predicted the presence of UUT uroliths in the multivariable regression (OR = 6.5, 95% CI 2.8–16.7, p < 0.001). Increasing age (p < 0.001) and lower body weight (p = 0.0016) were also predictors of UUT urolith presence in the multivariable regression. The high prevalence of UUT uroliths in dogs with LUT uroliths supports a shared mechanism for their formation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diseases of the Kidneys and Urinary Tract in Small Animals)
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7 pages, 617 KiB  
Article
The Relevance of Screening for Vector-Borne Diseases in Dogs with Proteinuria Living in an Endemic Region: A Retrospective Study
by Margarida L. Q. M. Paz, Telmo Casimiro, José H. D. Correia and Rodolfo O. Leal
Vet. Sci. 2022, 9(6), 266; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci9060266 - 1 Jun 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1989
Abstract
This study aims to assess the main causes of proteinuria in dogs from the region of Lisbon (Portugal), estimating the relevance of screening for canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs). A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted. Medical records from proteinuric dogs (urinary protein–creatinine ratio > [...] Read more.
This study aims to assess the main causes of proteinuria in dogs from the region of Lisbon (Portugal), estimating the relevance of screening for canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs). A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted. Medical records from proteinuric dogs (urinary protein–creatinine ratio > 0.5) presented to a Veterinary Teaching Hospital over a two-year period were reviewed for signalment, established diagnosis, proteinuria origin, and CVBD screening results. A total of 106 dogs were included. The median age was 9.5 years old (IQR: 7–12). Proteinuria was considered of renal origin in 76% of cases (46% of them had a presumptive diagnosis of glomerulonephritis secondary to CVBD, 27% chronic kidney disease, 26% systemic disease possible to induce proteinuria, and 1% leptospirosis). Proteinuria was classified as post-renal or mixed-origin in 17% and 7% of cases, respectively. About 35% of proteinuric dogs were positive for at least one CVBD. Of them, 84% were seropositive for one CVBD, while 16% tested positive for two or more. Among dogs testing positive for CVBD, 89% were seropositive for Leishmania infantum. This study showed that about one-third of proteinuric dogs tested positive for CVBDs, highlighting the relevance of their screening in dogs with proteinuria living in endemic regions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diseases of the Kidneys and Urinary Tract in Small Animals)
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8 pages, 2900 KiB  
Article
Immunohistochemical Expression of TGF-β1 in Kidneys of Cats with Chronic Kidney Disease
by Yuki Uehara, Yu Furusawa, Md Shafiqul Islam, Osamu Yamato, Hitoshi Hatai, Osamu Ichii and Akira Yabuki
Vet. Sci. 2022, 9(3), 114; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci9030114 - 3 Mar 2022
Viewed by 3413
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) plays a central role in the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, in feline CKD, renal expression of TGF-β1 and how it changes as the disease progresses have not been fully studied. In the present study, we [...] Read more.
Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) plays a central role in the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, in feline CKD, renal expression of TGF-β1 and how it changes as the disease progresses have not been fully studied. In the present study, we immunohistochemically assessed the renal expression levels of TGF-β1 in cats with CKD and statistically analyzed its correlation with CKD severity. Clear immunosignals were detected in the glomerular mesangial cells, Bowman’s capsules, proximal tubules, distal nephrons, platelets, and vascular smooth muscles in the kidneys of cats with CKD. Statistically, luminal signals in the distal nephrons showed positive correlations with plasma creatinine levels and glomerulosclerosis, while those in the proximal tubules and platelets showed negative correlations with plasma urea and/or creatinine levels. Therefore, it was suggested that the changes in the renal expression of TGF-β1 could be associated with progression of feline CKD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diseases of the Kidneys and Urinary Tract in Small Animals)
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13 pages, 833 KiB  
Article
Serum and Fecal Amino Acid Profiles in Cats with Chronic Kidney Disease
by Stacie C. Summers, Jessica Quimby, Amanda Blake, Deborah Keys, Joerg M. Steiner and Jan Suchodolski
Vet. Sci. 2022, 9(2), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci9020084 - 17 Feb 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3276
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to quantify serum and fecal amino acids (AA) in cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and compare to healthy cats. Thirty-five cats with International Renal Interest Society Stage 1–4 CKD and 16 healthy mature adult and senior [...] Read more.
The purpose of the study was to quantify serum and fecal amino acids (AA) in cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and compare to healthy cats. Thirty-five cats with International Renal Interest Society Stage 1–4 CKD and 16 healthy mature adult and senior client-owned cats were included in this prospective cross-sectional study. Sera were analyzed for 25 AA concentrations using an ion exchange chromatography AA analyzer with post column ninhydrin derivatization. Voided fecal samples were analyzed for 22 AA concentrations using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. CKD cats had lower serum concentrations of phenylalanine (mean difference ± standard error of the mean: 12.7 ± 4.3 µM; p = 0.03), threonine (29.6 ± 9.2 µM; p = 0.03), tryptophan (18.4 ± 5.4 µM; p = 0.005), serine (29.8 ± 12.6 µM; p = 0.03), and tyrosine (11.6 ± 3.8 µM; p = 0.01) and higher serum concentrations of aspartic acid (4.7 ± 2.0 µM; p = 0.01), β-alanine (3.4 ± 1.2 µM; p = 0.01), citrulline (5.7 ± 1.6 µM; p = 0.01), and taurine (109.9 ± 29.6 µM; p = 0.01) when compared to healthy cats. Fecal AA concentrations did not differ between healthy cats and CKD cats. 3-Methylhistidine-to-creatinine did not differ between healthy cats with and without muscle loss. Cats with CKD IRIS Stages 1–4 have a deranged serum amino acid profile compared to healthy cats. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diseases of the Kidneys and Urinary Tract in Small Animals)
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9 pages, 1007 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Temporary Urethral Stents in the Management of Malignant and Nonmalignant Urethral Diseases in Dogs
by Jody P. Lulich
Vet. Sci. 2022, 9(2), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci9020063 - 1 Feb 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5094
Abstract
Urethral stent placement is a minimally invasive interventional procedure commonly performed by specialists to alleviate urethral obstruction. However, the availability of urethral stents is limited by their high cost and the need for special equipment. The aim of this retrospective study was to [...] Read more.
Urethral stent placement is a minimally invasive interventional procedure commonly performed by specialists to alleviate urethral obstruction. However, the availability of urethral stents is limited by their high cost and the need for special equipment. The aim of this retrospective study was to describe the construction and placement of an inexpensive temporary urethral stent and to report on its outcome in managing dogs with naturally occurring urethral disease. Temporary stents were placed in the urethra of 17 dogs with malignant and nonmalignant urethral pathologies. The most common indication for temporary stent placement was urethral obstruction. In this population, urethral patency was restored in all dogs. The most frequently reported complication was urinary incontinence. To manage this complication, dogs were diapered. Temporary urethral stents served as a durable and inexpensive alternative to expanding metallic stents. Because temporary stents were constructed from readily available materials and inserted without special equipment, practitioners capable of catheterizing the urethra can insert them on demand. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diseases of the Kidneys and Urinary Tract in Small Animals)
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19 pages, 2800 KiB  
Article
Renal Senescence, Telomere Shortening and Nitrosative Stress in Feline Chronic Kidney Disease
by Jessica Quimby, Andrea Erickson, Shannon Mcleland, Rachel Cianciolo, David Maranon, Katharine Lunn, Jonathan Elliott, Jack Lawson, Ann Hess, Rene Paschall and Susan Bailey
Vet. Sci. 2021, 8(12), 314; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci8120314 - 8 Dec 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4462
Abstract
Kidney tissues from cats with naturally occurring chronic kidney disease (CKD) and adult and senior cats without CKD were assessed to determine whether telomere shortening and nitrosative stress are associated with senescence in feline CKD. The histopathologic assessment of percent global glomerulosclerosis, inflammatory [...] Read more.
Kidney tissues from cats with naturally occurring chronic kidney disease (CKD) and adult and senior cats without CKD were assessed to determine whether telomere shortening and nitrosative stress are associated with senescence in feline CKD. The histopathologic assessment of percent global glomerulosclerosis, inflammatory infiltrate, and fibrosis was performed. Senescence and nitrosative stress were evaluated utilizing p16 and iNOS immunohistochemistry, respectively. Renal telomere length was evaluated using telomere fluorescent in situ hybridization combined with immunohistochemistry. CKD cats were found to have significantly increased p16 staining in both the renal cortex and corticomedullary junction compared to adult and senior cats. Senior cats had significantly increased p16 staining in the corticomedullary junction compared to adult cats. p16 staining in both the renal cortex and corticomedullary junction were found to be significantly correlated with percent global glomerulosclerosis, cortical inflammatory infiltrate, and fibrosis scores. p16 staining also correlated with age in non-CKD cats. Average telomere length was significantly decreased in CKD cats compared to adult and senior cats. CKD cats had significantly increased iNOS staining compared to adult cats. Our results demonstrate increased renal senescence, telomere shortening, and nitrosative stress in feline CKD, identifying these patients as potential candidates for senolytic therapy with translational potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diseases of the Kidneys and Urinary Tract in Small Animals)
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12 pages, 291 KiB  
Article
Alterations of Serum Biochemical and Urinary Parameters in a Canine Population before and after Intravenous Contrast Administration
by Federica Cagnasso, Barbara Bruno, Claudio Bellino, Antonio Borrelli, Ilaria Lippi, Barbara Miniscalco, Silvia Roncone, Alberto Valazza, Renato Zanatta and Paola Gianella
Vet. Sci. 2021, 8(8), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci8080146 - 29 Jul 2021
Viewed by 2842
Abstract
Intravenous iodinated contrast (IVIC) medium is routinely administered to dogs. Scattered information exists regarding the serum biochemical or urinary profiles associated with the administration of IVIC in dogs. The aim of the study was to describe, compare, and discuss from the perspective of [...] Read more.
Intravenous iodinated contrast (IVIC) medium is routinely administered to dogs. Scattered information exists regarding the serum biochemical or urinary profiles associated with the administration of IVIC in dogs. The aim of the study was to describe, compare, and discuss from the perspective of previous studies the alterations in serum biochemical and urinary parameters before (T0) and within one week (T1) of the IVIC administration during routine computed tomography (CT) scan evaluation of 22 dogs. Mature dogs presenting for CT scan evaluation for preoperative oncology staging/surgical planning were included. T1 evaluation was performed within one week of IVIC administration. Statistically significant differences in serum total protein, albumin, chloride, calcium, and phosphorus concentrations, urine protein to creatinine ratio, and urine specific gravity were found between T1 and T0. At T1, the serum creatinine concentration was within reference ranges in all dogs but one. An increase in the urine protein to creatinine ratio was observed in four samples, one of which was non-proteinuric at T0. Changes in biochemistry and urine parameters between T0 and T1 were not considered clinically significant. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diseases of the Kidneys and Urinary Tract in Small Animals)
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