Dogs
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) encompasses a group of enzymes, mainly secreted by the liver and bone, which are active in a non-acidic (alkaline) phase. Other body parts that are responsible for the production of alkaline phosphatase are kidney, placenta, and the intestinal lining. By elevated alkaline phosphatase, we mean that the amount of ALP is higher than the recommended levels. Similar to humans, elevated alkaline phosphatase in dogs can be related to certain health problems.
Causes
The exact reasons for elevated alkaline phosphatase in pet dogs are not known as yet. In majority of cases, this abnormality is related to liver problems and bone diseases. It is estimated that a pet dog showing very high amounts of ALP has more than 50 percent chances of developing liver and bone diseases. The prime causes of increased ALP are underlying diseases, medicinal side effects, and being young dogs. Some of the causal factors related to an abnormal canine alkaline phosphatase are as follows.
Cushing's Disease
The most common dog illness associated with elevated alkaline phosphatase is Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism), which causes excess production of the hormone, adrenalin. To regulate the salt balance, the dog's body starts secreting high amounts of alkaline phosphatase.
Infectious Hepatitis
Infectious hepatitis is usually spread from one affected dog to another via direct contact or feeding on contaminated food. Over here, the invading parasites attack the liver, which in turn causes elevation of alkaline phosphatase and other hepatic enzymes.
Nodular Hyperplasia
Hepatic nodular hyperplasia is a benign liver disorder that results in abnormal secretion of alkaline phosphatase in dogs. It is a chronic condition and usually, remains asymptomatic till the final stages. Hence, an early diagnosis of nodular hyperplasia is very difficult in most cases.
Other Causal Reasons
In some cases, administration of corticosteroids and certain other medications for a prolonged period causes increased alkaline phosphatase levels. The enzyme activity is at its peak in puppies, hence they usually have higher levels. Also, certain dog breeds tend to develop benign tumor at the age of 9 - 10 years, which is characterized by a marked increase in the ALP levels.
Some of the noticeable symptoms for elevated alkaline phosphatase in pet dogs include general discomfort, lethargy, jaundice, weakness, and pain. Also, there are asymptomatic cases too. After all, the liver organ is capable of performing normal functions, unless it is severely damaged. In addition to high alkaline phosphatase in dogs, there are also cases of abnormally low levels of ALP. In general, a very low amount of alkaline phosphatase is a genetic defect that results in bone defects and liver problems.
Overview
Elevated alkaline phosphatase in pets is diagnosed by conducting a blood test. At the time of injury and other normal activities, this enzyme is released into the bloodstream. Though a blood test determines the high level of alkaline phosphatase in the body, it is not effective to identify the source of elevation. Hence, correct differential diagnostic methods (like affinity electrophoresis) are essential to check whether the defect is in the bone or the liver. The vet may also check for jaundice, pancreatitis, dog liver cancer, and other liver problems.
If routine blood tests show a slight increase of alkaline phosphatase from the normal level, then there is no need for therapeutic intervention. However, if the level is significantly high, the vet may suggest certain dog care tips, including monitoring and amending its feeding habits along with routine medical checkups. Timely treatment of the pets with elevated alkaline phosphatase is necessary, if there is an increased risk for severe complications. The methodology for the treatment of an elevated alkaline phosphatase depends upon the diagnostic result and the overall dog's health.
Based on the underlying cause, the vet may prescribe specific medication for elevated liver enzymes in dogs. In order to promote the liver health, liver medications are advocated. The sick pet should be fed with low sodium dog food, and foods that contain simple carbohydrates and fatty acids. Doing so ensures that the liver is not overtaxed during the process of digestion. With correct medications for elevated alkaline phosphatase and proper care from your side, you can make your pet comfortable and increase its life expectancy.
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Dogs
Elevated Alkaline Phosphatase in Dogs
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) encompasses a group of enzymes, mainly secreted by the liver and bone, which are active in a non-acidic (alkaline) phase. Other body parts that are responsible for the production of alkaline phosphatase are kidney, placenta, and the intestinal lining. By elevated alkaline phosphatase, we mean that the amount of ALP is higher than the recommended levels. Similar to humans, elevated alkaline phosphatase in dogs can be related to certain health problems.
Causes
The exact reasons for elevated alkaline phosphatase in pet dogs are not known as yet. In majority of cases, this abnormality is related to liver problems and bone diseases. It is estimated that a pet dog showing very high amounts of ALP has more than 50 percent chances of developing liver and bone diseases. The prime causes of increased ALP are underlying diseases, medicinal side effects, and being young dogs. Some of the causal factors related to an abnormal canine alkaline phosphatase are as follows.
Cushing's Disease
The most common dog illness associated with elevated alkaline phosphatase is Cushing's disease (hyperadrenocorticism), which causes excess production of the hormone, adrenalin. To regulate the salt balance, the dog's body starts secreting high amounts of alkaline phosphatase.
Infectious Hepatitis
Infectious hepatitis is usually spread from one affected dog to another via direct contact or feeding on contaminated food. Over here, the invading parasites attack the liver, which in turn causes elevation of alkaline phosphatase and other hepatic enzymes.
Nodular Hyperplasia
Hepatic nodular hyperplasia is a benign liver disorder that results in abnormal secretion of alkaline phosphatase in dogs. It is a chronic condition and usually, remains asymptomatic till the final stages. Hence, an early diagnosis of nodular hyperplasia is very difficult in most cases.
Other Causal Reasons
In some cases, administration of corticosteroids and certain other medications for a prolonged period causes increased alkaline phosphatase levels. The enzyme activity is at its peak in puppies, hence they usually have higher levels. Also, certain dog breeds tend to develop benign tumor at the age of 9 - 10 years, which is characterized by a marked increase in the ALP levels.
Some of the noticeable symptoms for elevated alkaline phosphatase in pet dogs include general discomfort, lethargy, jaundice, weakness, and pain. Also, there are asymptomatic cases too. After all, the liver organ is capable of performing normal functions, unless it is severely damaged. In addition to high alkaline phosphatase in dogs, there are also cases of abnormally low levels of ALP. In general, a very low amount of alkaline phosphatase is a genetic defect that results in bone defects and liver problems.
Overview
Elevated alkaline phosphatase in pets is diagnosed by conducting a blood test. At the time of injury and other normal activities, this enzyme is released into the bloodstream. Though a blood test determines the high level of alkaline phosphatase in the body, it is not effective to identify the source of elevation. Hence, correct differential diagnostic methods (like affinity electrophoresis) are essential to check whether the defect is in the bone or the liver. The vet may also check for jaundice, pancreatitis, dog liver cancer, and other liver problems.
If routine blood tests show a slight increase of alkaline phosphatase from the normal level, then there is no need for therapeutic intervention. However, if the level is significantly high, the vet may suggest certain dog care tips, including monitoring and amending its feeding habits along with routine medical checkups. Timely treatment of the pets with elevated alkaline phosphatase is necessary, if there is an increased risk for severe complications. The methodology for the treatment of an elevated alkaline phosphatase depends upon the diagnostic result and the overall dog's health.
Based on the underlying cause, the vet may prescribe specific medication for elevated liver enzymes in dogs. In order to promote the liver health, liver medications are advocated. The sick pet should be fed with low sodium dog food, and foods that contain simple carbohydrates and fatty acids. Doing so ensures that the liver is not overtaxed during the process of digestion. With correct medications for elevated alkaline phosphatase and proper care from your side, you can make your pet comfortable and increase its life expectancy.
- Enlarged Liver In Dogs
The condition of an enlarged liver is referred to as hepatomegaly. Enlarged liver, in itself, is a premiere symptom of different liver diseases; such as, liver cancer, or liver injury. If treatment is not meted in time, a condition such as this one,...
- Lipase Levels In Dogs
Similar to us humans, the dogs' body is made of protein enzymes that regulate the rate of various frequent chemical reactions that take place inside their body. Lipase is one of the most essential digestive enzymes that catalyzes the process...
- Liver Problems In Dogs
Liver is the largest organ not only in the human body, but also in a dog's body. The liver is situated in the abdomen behind the diaphragm in dogs. The liver is one of the most important organs as most of the biochemical pathways that help in...
- High Liver Enzymes In Dogs
Like humans, the liver is a vital organ for a canine too, which performs a number of functions. It detoxifies and eliminates toxins that enter the bloodstream. The liver also produces bile to break down fat, and plays a vital role in maintaining...
- Bile Duct Obstruction In Dogs
Bile production is one of the most important functions of the liver. This fluid that is produced by the liver aids in digestion. Once produced in the liver, it flows to the gallbladder, where it is stored. The bile is released into the small intestine,...