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Chemical nephrosis This condition develops as a result of ingestion of toxic materials, these can include metals (lead, mercury, arsenic), organic compounds such as antifreeze (ethylene glycol), certain types of drugs and chemotheraputic agents. Initial signs of ingestion may be those of acute renal failure, or instead may reflect the effect of the substance on another body system, for example vomiting and diarrhoea induced by gastrointestinal damage. Acute renal failure will present with a lethargic, inappetant animal that is also vomiting. The abdomen will be painful and the kidneys may be swollen. The increased pressure within the kidney will initially stop urine production, if this subsides the urine production may become excessive for a period while the tissues recover. Blood tests will have a raised urea, creatinine and phosphate, urine tests will show a large amount of debris from the damaged kidneys, with certain toxins crystal formation occurs and these are visible under a microscope and are an aid to diagnosis. Treatment should start as soon after the ingestion of the toxin as possible, and not wait for clinical signs to develop. In many cases owners are not aware that their pet has ingested toxic material until illness develops. The animal should be induced to vomit (sodium bicarbonate or similar drug), and if necessary a gastric lavage performed to empty and flush out the stomach. With certain toxins specific treatments or antidotes may be required, for example antifreeze poisoning in cats can be treated with eythl alcohol and calcium infusion. Intravenous fluids are useful if urine production is functioning, diuretics may also help to stimulate diuresis. The prognosis depends on the extent of the damage but is often poor, chronic renal failure is likely to develop even if the animal survives the acute episode. |
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