Posted 2014-02-11 4:02 PM Subject: OT … Dogs … Bile Acid Test ...
Porta Potty Pants
Posts: 2600
We just picked up our aussie from her wellness check. The vet recommended a bile acid test. Her levels were elevated during her last exam and again this time (higher now). I understand the test is to see if her liver is functioning appropriately, but what happens after that? What are the possible issues. I know I'm probably asking a broad question, but I'm curious as to what could be causing elevated levels. Mind you she is overweight. That could be one thing … but what "could" I be dealing with? Thanks.
Posted 2014-02-11 4:39 PM Subject: RE: OT … Dogs … Bile Acid Test ...
Elite Veteran
Posts: 1182 Location: Do I hear Banjos?
Well it can be an indicator of primary liver disease (a mass or other issue with the function of the liver itself), or possibly associated with secondary metabolic diseases (such as Chushings or heart disease for example). The test is a good next step but likely will lead to more questions before the diagnoses can be made.
If it were my pup I would go ahead and have the Bile Acid test (Pre and Post Prandial samples), and have an abdominal ultrasound to get a look at the liver. It's best not to let this go since she has had two abnormal tests. Good luck and I hope it ends up being something easily treated!
Posted 2014-02-11 6:03 PM Subject: RE: OT … Dogs … Bile Acid Test ...
Porta Potty Pants
Posts: 2600
Yeah … kinda leaving me a little scared. She used to be really naughty when she was a pup and then she got sick. Vomiting and lethargic … trip to the vet and an ultrasound and several thousand dollars later, the only thing they could find was whip worm, which the vet was kinda surprised about given she doesn't travel anywhere but around the neighborhood and in the back yard and we live in a subdivision, not to mention the heat. She recovered but was more docile. She was about 1.5 to 2 years old then, so we all just thought she finally outgrew her "puppy antics". That was about 5 years ago. Now I'm wondering ….
OT … Dogs … Bile Acid Test ...
