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A suspected case of Lyme glomerulonephritis in a Labrador Retriever

Author
Emery, Cathleen
Abstract
"Koko," a three-year-old female Labrador Retriever, presented to Cornell on August 26, 2002 with
suspected Lyme glomerulonephritis. While Lyme disease in dogs typically presents as acute mono/
polyarthritis, atypical presentations of canine Lyme disease - including Lyme (glomerulo) nephritis
- are being recognized with increasing frequency. Lyme glomerulonephritis, more common in
retriever breeds, is characterized by renal failure with protein-losing nephropathy. Histopathologic
lesions consist of immune-mediated membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, diffuse tubular
necrosis, and interstitial inflammation; renal pathology is irreversible. "Koko's" history consisted
of a transient single limb lameness, followed by worsening lethargy, anorexia, and polyuria.
Laboratory tests revealed the presence of protein losing nephropathy and concurrent renal failure; a
Lyme ELISA and Western blot were positive for antibody to infection. These results indicated
glomerular injury, with Borrelia burgdorferi as a possible causative agent. Renal biopsies would
be necessary to definitively diagnose the glomerulopathy, but "Koko's" thrombocytopenia and a
prolonged BMBT represented contraindications for biopsy.
Journal/Series
Senior seminar paper Seminar SF610.1 2003 E44
Description
Senior seminar (D.V.M.) -- Cornell University, 2003.
Includes bibliographical references (leaves 17-18).
Sponsorship
Advisor/Clinician: Dr. Jennifer McCabe
Date Issued
2002-11-13Subject
Dogs -- Infections -- Case studies; Dogs -- Diseases -- Case studies
Type
term paper