Blood test in dogs: norm, interpretation, reasons for increase and decrease in indicators. Biochemical blood test - Veterinary Nephrology Clinic VeraVet

Deciphering a biochemical blood test in dogs helps to refute or confirm the diagnosis that was previously made to the pet, based on clinical examination. It can also help identify the presence of other pathologies that require immediate medical intervention.

Biochemical blood test in dogs

The obtained biochemical data helps the veterinarian give a correct assessment of the state of metabolic processes and obtain a correct picture of the course of a particular disease in a dog.

Biochemical analysis blood helps to diagnose the disease.

Definition pathological process occurs on the basis of data about:

• indicators water-salt metabolism;
• lipid metabolism;
• carbohydrate metabolism;
• enzymes;
• nitrogenous components;
• pigments;
• squirrels

Main indications

A biochemical blood test is prescribed when:

• pancreatic amylase;
• renal pathologies;
• gastrointestinal disorders.

If you have a gastrointestinal disorder, you should take a blood test.

How to get tested correctly

Blood sampling from an animal is carried out both in a veterinary clinic and at home, after a preliminary agreement with a doctor. On the eve of the procedure, it is necessary to stop using medications.

The dog's blood is drawn at a veterinary clinic.

You also need to temporarily give up physical activity. It is not recommended to perform massage manipulations, do ultrasound and x-rays.

You can give your dog food only 8–12 hours before the procedure.

Table and norms of indicators

Biochemical blood parameters are as follows:

Index	Norm (µmol/l.)
Chlorides	102–114
Sodium	140–154
Potassium	3,9–5,6
Triglycerides	0,57
Uric acid	159
Magnesium	0,71–1,1
Calcium	2,2–2,8
Inorganic phosphorus	0,8–1,9
Creatinine	33–134
Urea	4,2–8,8
Amylase	299–2.0 thousand
Total bilirubin	0–7,7
Cholesterol	3,3–6,9
Albumen	26–36 g l
Protein	56–76 g/l
Glucose	3,3-5,9

Decoding the results

Blood values ​​are read exclusively by a specialist. All obtained data are considered in a comprehensive manner.

The results are deciphered by a specialist.

Test results in themselves do not constitute a diagnosis.

To confirm the diagnosis, additional examination is carried out. Only after this the veterinarian prescribes treatment.

Changes in cholesterol levels

Improper feeding can help lower cholesterol.

An increase indicates liver pathologies. But the dog is also diagnosed with hypothyroidism, ischemia or atherosclerosis.

1. Cirrhosis.
2. Portocaval anastomosis.
3. Oncology.

And also a decrease in cholesterol indicates that the owner is feeding the dog incorrectly.

Changes in phosphorus indicators

This element is part nucleic acids . Its level is regulated simultaneously with calcium levels. An increase indicates the destruction of bone tissue, an excess of vitamin D, leakage endocrine pathologies or .

A decrease in indicators may indicate:

1. Malabsorption.
2. Lack of vitamin D.
3. Lack of growth hormone.

With hypercalcemia, the dog experiences nausea.

Changes in calcium levels

This element helps conduct nerve impulses into the heart muscle and retain fluid in the blood vessels. This stops the development of swelling.

Normal calcium levels contribute to healthy blood clotting and muscle contraction. The element is found in tooth enamel and bone tissue.

Calcium is present in dog tooth enamel.

Increasing its performance indicates dysfunction parathyroid gland. This may also indicate the progression of malignant pathologies such as leukemia and myeloma. This condition is also called hypercalcemia.

Decrease in indicators may indicate renal failure or thyroid dysfunction.

Changes in chloride levels

Their increase signals acute renal failure or the penetration of salicylates into the body.

An increase in chlorides in the blood indicates renal failure.

But it also indicates increased functioning of the adrenal cortex.

Changes in sodium levels

An increase indicates that it has been violated central regulation water-salt metabolism. This dangerous condition also called hypernatremia.

A low sodium level indicates heart failure.

Changes in creatinine levels

This item is the final product creatine metabolism, which is synthesized in the liver and kidneys from:

• methionine;
• glycine;
• arginine

It is excreted from the body by the kidneys and is not reabsorbed in the renal tubules. Its increase may indicate the development of renal failure. A decrease indicates thinning muscle mass.

Sometimes a change in these indicators signals pregnancy.

Creatinine levels change during pregnancy.

Changes in urea levels

The dog's urinary system.

When the indicators decrease, this indicates protein starvation or a malabsorption of this element.

Changes in total bilirubin levels

This bile component is a coloring substance. When its levels increase, skin tone may change. This symptom usually indicates liver cell damage.

This may also be a sign of obstruction bile ducts. The dog may be diagnosed with obstructive jaundice.

If bilirubin levels change, jaundice may appear.

Changes in total protein values

Protein is the most important biochemical criterion. It is necessary to regulate metabolism and accelerate biochemical reactions. It is thanks to proteins that the liquid in blood vessels does not penetrate tissue.

Protein regulates metabolism in the blood.

Their synthesis in the liver is carried out from dietary amino acids. Consists of total protein from globulins and albumins. An increase in indicators indicates dehydration or the development of myeloma. This condition is also called hyperproteinemia.

A decrease in indicators signals the development of intestinal pathologies or acute renal failure. And also this symptom is called hypoproteinemia.

Changes in glucose levels

Glucose deficiency leads to the fact that this element does not pass into cells.

Blood levels increase, but cellular starvation is observed. Against the background of an increase, it may develop diabetes or thyrotoxicosis. Sometimes an increase in glucose indicates the development of Cushing's syndrome.

A decrease in levels is called hypoglycemia. This signals severe pancreatic pathologies. In the worst case scenario, a malignant tumor may be diagnosed. Sometimes a decrease in indicators indicates that the animal’s liver is affected.

In case of poisoning, glucose levels change.

What is important to remember?

The data from the biochemical blood test must be compared with the general clinical data that were obtained by the specialist during the examination of the dog.

The analysis data is compared with a general examination of the dog.

The point of this study is to reflect the functioning of the enzymatic system of the canine body on the state of the blood.

conclusions

A blood test can help identify the disease initial stage.

A biochemical blood test should be performed not only when specific symptoms. This study allows you to identify any disease at the initial stage. Therefore, it is necessary to be examined by a veterinarian regularly and take tests on his recommendation.

Video about deciphering dog blood tests

The norms for a general blood test in dogs are as follows:

Hemoglobin

The blood pigment of red blood cells that carries oxygen and carbon dioxide.
Promotion:
- polycythemia (increased number of red blood cells)
- stay at high altitudes
- excessive exercise stress
- dehydration, blood thickening
Decrease:
- anemia

Red blood cells

Nuclear-free formed elements of blood containing hemoglobin. They make up the bulk of the formed elements of blood. The average for a dog is 4–6.5 thousand*10^6/l. Cats - 5-10 thousand * 10^6/l.
Increased (erythrocytosis):
- bronchopulmonary pathology, heart defects, polycystic kidney disease, neoplasms of the kidneys, liver, dehydration.
Decrease:
- anemia, acute blood loss, chronic inflammatory process, hyperhydration.

The sedimentation rate of erythrocytes in the form of a column when blood settles. Depends on the number of red blood cells, their “weight” and shape, and on the properties of the plasma - the amount of proteins (mainly fibrinogen), viscosity.
The norm is 0–10 mm/h.
Promotion:
- infections
- inflammatory process
- malignant tumors
- anemia
- pregnancy
No increase in the presence of the above reasons:
- polycythemia
- decrease in plasma fibrinogen levels.

Platelets

Blood plates formed from giant cells bone marrow. Responsible for blood clotting.
Normal blood content is 190-550?10^9 l.
Promotion:
- polycythemia
- myeloid leukemia
- inflammatory process
- condition after removal of the spleen, surgical operations. Decrease:
- system autoimmune diseases(systemic lupus erythematosus)
- aplastic anemia
- hemolytic anemia

Leukocytes

White blood cells. Formed in red bone marrow. Function - protection against foreign substances and microbes (immunity). The average for dogs is 6.0–16.0?10^9/l. For cats - 5.5–18.0?10^9/l.
There are different types of white blood cells with specific functions (see leukocyte formula), so diagnostic value has a number change individual species, and not all leukocytes in general.
Increased - leukocytosis
- leukemia
- infections, inflammation
- state after acute bleeding, hemolysis
- allergies
- with a long course of corticosteroids
Decreased - leukopenia
- some infections, bone marrow pathology (aplastic anemia)
- increased function spleen
- genetic abnormalities immunity
- anaphylactic shock

Leukocyte formula

Percentage different types leukocytes.

1. Neutrophils

2.Eosinophils

Participate in immediate hypersensitivity reactions. They are rare.
The norm is 0-1% of the total number of leukocytes.
Increase - basophilia
- allergic reactions to the introduction of a foreign protein, including an allergy to food
- chronic inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract
- hypothyroidism
- blood diseases ( acute leukemia, lymphogranulomatosis)

4.Lymphocytes

Basic cells immune system. Fight viral infections. Destroy foreign cells and altered own cells (recognize foreign proteins - antigens and selectively destroy cells containing them - specific immunity), release antibodies (immunoglobulins) into the blood - substances that block antigen molecules and remove them from the body.
The norm is 18-25% of the total number of leukocytes.
Increased - lymphocytosis:
- hyperthyroidism
- viral infections
- lymphocytic leukemia
Decreased - lymphopenia:
- use of corticosteroids, immunosuppressants
- malignant neoplasms
- renal failure
- chronic liver diseases
- immunodeficiency states
- circulatory failure

In this article I will talk about the main indicators of a biochemical blood test in dogs. I'll describe it possible deviations, reasons and why they occur, and what indicators are considered normal in dogs. I’ll tell you why alkaline phosphatase may increase, why LDH is elevated and pancreatic amylase is decreased, treatment options.

Decoding blood biochemistry

Blood for biochemistry is taken strictly from a vein. To do this, use a needle and sterile test tubes, which are closed with plastic caps.

It is unacceptable to shake or foam the resulting biomaterial.

In dogs, blood is usually taken from a vein on the front or hind limb, less often - from jugular vein(on the neck).

During biochemical analysis, the following indicators are examined:

• Total protein and albumin. Show the state of liver function and the level of protein metabolism in the body.
• Urea. This substance is formed in the liver after neutralizing ammonia, which is the result of bacterial fermentation in the gastrointestinal tract. Excreted in urine.
• Bilirubin. A product that is formed after the destruction of hemoglobin in the blood. Deviation from the norm indicates diseases that are accompanied by the breakdown of red blood cells.
• Creatinine. A substance that is excreted in the urine. This indicator reflects the functioning of the kidneys.
• ALT and AST. Enzymes that are directly involved in the metabolism of amino acids. This indicator is used to assess the condition of the liver.
• Alkaline phosphatase. A deviation may be normal (in puppies), and also indicate the development of diseases of the liver, intestines, endocrine system.
• Amylase. Participates in the breakdown of complex sugars. Amylase is produced by the pancreas and salivary glands.
• Glucose. This indicator is used to evaluate the metabolism of carbohydrates in the animal’s body.
• Cholesterol. Participates in fat metabolism. The indicator judges the function of the liver, endocrine organs, kidney.
• Electrolytes. These include potassium, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, iron, chlorine, magnesium. Take part in metabolism in the body.
• pH. This indicator is always constant, and the slightest deviation from the norm can lead to the death of the pet.

It is impossible to make a diagnosis based on only one indicator of biochemical analysis. A full assessment must be carried out and all data collated.

A correctly deciphered biochemical analysis will give an idea of ​​the work of all internal organs dogs.

Blood collection at general analysis blood

Biochemical blood test in a dog: norm and interpretation of results table

The table shows normal indicators biochemistry, as well as deciphering possible deviations.

Indicator name	Norm	Demotion	Promotion
Total protein	41-75 g/l	Reduced protein synthesis, hepatitis and hepatosis (chronic form), nephrotic syndrome.	Lack of water in the body, inflammation, infection, tumor development.
Albumen	22-38 g/l	Damage to the gastrointestinal tract and liver, pyelonephritis in chronic form, Cushing's syndrome, severe exhaustion, pancreatitis, some infections.	Severe dehydration.
Urea	3.6-9.4 mmol/l	Destruction of liver tissue, lack of protein in the body.	Excess protein in the diet, kidney failure, heart attack, vomiting and diarrhea, acute anemia.
Bilirubin	2.9-13.7 mmol/l	Anemia, bone marrow diseases	Liver diseases and destruction of its cells, leptospirosis.
Creatinine	26-121 µmol/l	Age-related muscular dystrophy, pregnancy.	Hyperthyroidism, taking furosemide or glucose. A false increase in the indicator occurs with diabetic ketoacidosis.
ALT	19-80 Units	—	Hepatitis in any form, tumors in the liver, cell necrosis, fatty liver degeneration
AST	11-43 Units	May occur with vitamin B6 deficiency.	Hepatitis (acute or chronic), decreased kidney function, necrosis of cardiac or liver tissue, bone injuries, fatty liver degeneration. It may also occur when taking anticoagulants and vitamin C.
Alkaline phosphatase	39-56 Units	Observed in hypothyroidism and anemia.	Diseases of the liver, gall bladder and ducts, bone tumors, the presence of infection in the gastrointestinal tract. It can also be increased when feeding the dog fatty foods.
Amylase	684-2157 Unit.	Severe poisoning with arsenic and other poisons, death of pancreatic tissue, taking anticoagulants.	Diabetes mellitus, pancreatitis, poisoning, liver disease, renal failure.
Glucose	4.1-7.5 mmol/l	Stomach cancer, lesions of the liver parenchyma, fibrosarcoma, pancreatic diseases. A decrease in glucose is also observed during insulin shock.	Cushing's syndrome, state of shock, diabetes mellitus, severe physical activity, heart attack, stroke, pancreatitis.
Cholesterol	2.7-6.6 mmol/l	Renal and liver failure, liver tumors, infections, rheumatoid arthritis, hyperthyroidism, malabsorption of nutrients.	Heart attack, hypertension, ischemia, liver disease, chronic renal failure, neoplasms in the pancreas.
Potassium	4.2-6.3 mmol/l	Prolonged fasting, diarrhea, vomiting, muscle atrophy.	Fasting, acidosis, blood transfusion.
Sodium	138-167 mmol/l	Lack of vitamin D in the body, taking certain medications (insulin, analgesics).	Dehydration, diabetes, tumors in bone tissue, chronic renal failure.
Calcium	2.1-3.5 mmol/l	Acute lack of vitamin D, pancreatitis, cirrhosis.	Bone tumors, lymphoma, excess vitamin D, leukemia.
Phosphorus	1.15-2.9 mmol/l	Rickets, gastrointestinal diseases, eating disorders, vomiting and diarrhea.	Lymphoma, leukemia, bone tumors, bone fractures in the healing process.
Iron	21-31 µmol/l	Anemia, cancer, recovery after surgery.	Acute hepatitis, fatty liver degeneration, lead poisoning, nephritis.
Magnesium	0.8-1.5 mmol/l	Magnesium deficiency, pregnancy, vomiting and diarrhea, pancreatitis during exacerbation.	Dehydration, muscle and connective tissue injuries, kidney failure.
Chlorine	96-120 mmol/l	Prolonged diarrhea and vomiting, nephritis.	Diabetes (insipidus), head injuries, acidosis.
pH	7,35-7,45	Acidosis.	Alkalosis.

Significance of elevated alkaline phosphatase in dogs

An increase in alkaline phosphatase does not indicate specific disease, it is necessary to evaluate several indicators at once to make a diagnosis.

Blood biochemistry can reveal much more than a simple analysis

High levels of the enzyme may occur in the following cases:

• active bone growth in puppies;
• bearing offspring;
• healing of bone fractures;
• autoimmune diseases;
• taking steroids, NSAIDs, anticonvulsants;
• neoplasms in bone tissue, liver, mammary glands;
• diseases of the endocrine system (Cushing's syndrome, diabetes, hypothyroidism);
• hepatitis;
• an inflammatory process that occurs in the intestines or pancreas;
• blockage of the bile ducts;
• abscess with the formation of pus.

Biochemical analysis is very important and effective method diagnostics

Blood sampling must be carried out according to the rules, otherwise the indicators may be inaccurate, and as a result an incorrect diagnosis will be made.

According to clinical analysis, blood cells (erythrocytes, leukocytes, platelets) are studied. Thanks to this analysis it is possible to determine general condition animal health.

Red blood cells

Red blood cells: Normally, the number of red blood cells is: in dogs 5.2-8.4 * 10^12,
in cats 4.6-10.1 *10^12 per liter of blood. There can be either a lack of red blood cells in the blood or an increase in their number.

1) Lack of red blood cells in the blood is called erythropenia.

Erythropenia can be absolute or relative.

1.Absolute erythropenia- violation of the synthesis of red blood cells, their active destruction, or large blood loss.
2.Relative erythropenia- This is a decrease in the percentage of red blood cells in the blood due to the fact that the blood thins. Typically, this picture is observed when, for some reason, a large number of fluids into the bloodstream. The total number of red blood cells in this condition in the body remains normal.

IN clinical practice The most common classification of anemia is as follows:

• Iron deficiency
• Aplastic
• Megaloblastic
• Sideroblastic
• Chronic diseases
• Hemolytic

1. Anemia due to increased destruction of red blood cells
   a. Aplastic anemia - disease of the hematopoietic system, expressed in a sharp inhibition or cessation of growth and maturation of cells in the bone marrow.
   b. Iron-deficiency anemia seen as a symptom of another disease or condition rather than separate disease and occurs when the body has insufficient iron reserves.
   c. Megaloblastic anemia - rare disease, caused by impaired absorption of vitamin B12 and folic acid.
   d. Sideroblastic anemia– with this anemia, the animal’s body has enough iron, but the body is not able to use this iron to produce hemoglobin, which is needed to deliver oxygen to all tissues and organs. As a result, iron begins to accumulate in red blood cells.

2) Erythrocytosis

1. Absolute erythrocytosis– increase in the number of red blood cells in the body. This picture is observed in sick animals with chronic diseases heart and lungs.

2. Relative erythrocytosis– observed when the total number of red blood cells in the body is not increased, but due to blood thickening, the percentage of red blood cells per unit volume of blood increases. Blood becomes thicker when the body loses a lot of water.

Hemoglobin

Hemoglobinis part of red blood cells and serves to transport gases (oxygen, carbon dioxide) with blood.

Normal amount of hemoglobin: in dogs 110-170 g/l and in cats 80-170 g/l

1. A reduced hemoglobin content in red blood cells indicates

anemia.

2.Increased content hemoglobin may be associated with diseases

blood or increased hematopoiesis in the bone marrow with some

diseases: - chronic bronchitis,

Bronchial asthma,

Congenital or acquired heart defects,

Polycystic kidney disease and others, as well as after taking certain medications, for example,

steroid hormones.

Hematocrit

Hematocritshows the percentage of plasma and formed elements (erythrocytes, leukocytes and

platelets) blood.

1. An increased content of formed elements is observed during dehydration of the body (vomiting, diarrhea) and

some diseases.

2. A decrease in the number of blood cells is observed with an increase in circulating blood - this

may occur with edema and when a large amount of fluid enters the blood.

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)

The normal erythrocyte sedimentation rate in dogs and cats is 2-6 mm per hour.

1. More rapid sedimentation is observed in inflammatory processes, anemia and some other diseases.

2. Slow sedimentation of erythrocytes occurs with an increase in their concentration in the blood; with an increase in bile

pigments in the blood, which indicates liver disease.

Leukocytes

In dogs, the normal number of leukocytes is from 8.5-10.5 * 10^9 / l of blood, in cats it is 6.5-18.5 * 10^9 / l. There are several types of leukocytes in an animal's blood. And in order to clarify the state of the body, the leukocyte formula is derived - percentage ratio different forms leukocytes.

1) Leukocytosis– increase in the content of leukocytes in the blood.
1. Physiological leukocytosis - an increase in the number of leukocytes by a little and not for long, usually due to the entry of leukocytes into the blood from the spleen, bone marrow and lungs during food intake and physical activity.
2. Medication (protein-containing serum preparations, vaccines, antipyretic drugs, ether-containing drugs).
3.Pregnant
4.Newborns (14 days of life)
5. Reactive (true) leukocytosis develops during infectious and inflammatory processes, this occurs due to the increased production of leukocytes by the hematopoietic organs

2) Leukopenia– this is a decrease in the number of leukocytes in the blood, develops when viral infections and exhaustion, with bone marrow lesions. Typically, a decrease in the number of leukocytes is associated with a violation of their production and leads to a deterioration of immunity.

Leukogram- percentage ratio various forms leukocytes (eosinophils; monocytes; basophils; myelocytes; young; neutrophils: band, segmented; lymphocytes)

	Eoz	Mon	Baz	Mie	Yun	Pal	Seg	Lymph
Cats	2-8	1-5	0-1	0	0	3-9	40-50	36-50
Dogs	3-9	1-5	0-1	0	0	1-6	43-71	21-40

1.Eosinophils are phagocytic cells that absorb antigen-antibody immune complexes (mainly immunoglobulin E). In dogs, the norm is 3-9%, in cats 2-8%.

1.1.Eosinophilia is an increase in the number of eosinophils in the peripheral blood, which may be due to stimulation of the process of proliferation of the eosinophilic hematopoiesis under the influence of the formed immune complexes antigen-antibody and in diseases accompanied by autoimmune processes in the body.

1.2. Eosinopenia is a decrease or complete absence eosinophils in peripheral blood. Eosinopenia is observed in infectious and inflammatory purulent processes in organism.

2.1.Monocytosis - an increase in the content of monocytes in the blood most often occurs when

A) infectious diseases: toxoplasmosis, brucellosis;
b)high monocytes in the blood are one of the laboratory signs severely leaking infectious processes-sepsis, subacute endocarditis, some forms of leukemia (acute monocytic leukemia),
c) also malignant diseases lymphatic system- lymphogranulomatosis, lymphomas.

2.2.Monocytopenia- a decrease in the number of monocytes in the blood and even their absence can be observed with damage to the bone marrow with a decrease in its function (aplastic anemia, B12-deficiency anemia).

3.Basophils filled with granules that contain various mediators that, when released in the surrounding tissue, cause inflammation. Basophil granules contain large amounts of serotonin, histamine, prostaglandins, leukotrienes. It also contains heparin, due to which basophils are able to regulate blood clotting. Normally, cats and dogs have 0-1% basophils in the leukogram.

3.1.Basophilia- this is an increase in the content of basophils in the peripheral blood, noted when:

a) decreased thyroid function,
b) diseases of the blood system,
c) allergic conditions.

3.2.Basopenia- this decrease in the content of basophils in the peripheral blood is observed when:
a) acute pneumonia,
b) acute infections,
c) Cushing's syndrome,
d)stressful influences,
e)pregnancy,
f) increased thyroid function.

4.Myelocytes and metamyelocytes– precursors of leukocytes with a segmental nucleus (neutrophils). They are localized in the bone marrow and therefore are normal when clinical analysis blood are not detected. Appearance
precursors of neutrophils in a clinical blood test is called a shift leukocyte formula to the left and can be observed when various diseases accompanied by absolute leukocytosis. High quantitative indicators myelocytes and metamyelocytes observed in myeloid leukemia. Their main function is protection against infections through chemotaxis (directed movement towards stimulating agents) and phagocytosis (absorption and digestion) of foreign microorganisms.

5. Neutrophils as well as eosinophils and basophils, belong to granulocytic blood cells, since characteristic feature These blood cells are characterized by the presence of grains (granules) in the cytoplasm. Neutrophil granules contain lysozyme, myeloperoxidase, neutral and acid hydrolases, cationic proteins, lactoferrin, collagenase, aminopeptidase. It is thanks to the contents of the granules that neutrophils perform their functions.

5.1. Neutrophilia-increase in the number of neutrophils (band neutrophils are normal in dogs 1-6%, in cats 3-9%; segmented neutrophils in dogs 49-71%, in cats 40-50%) in the blood.

The main reason for the increase in neutrophils in the blood is the inflammatory process in the body, especially during purulent processes. By increasing the absolute number of neutrophils in the blood during the inflammatory process, one can indirectly judge the extent of inflammation and the adequacy of the immune response to the inflammatory process in the body.

5.2.Neutropenia- decrease in the number of neutrophils in peripheral blood. The reason for the decrease in neutrophils in the peripheral blood there may be suppression of bone marrow hematopoiesis of an organic or functional nature, increased destruction of neutrophils, and exhaustion of the body against the background of long-term diseases.

Neutropenia most often occurs when:

a) Viral infections, some bacterial infections(brucellosis), rickettsia infections, protozoal infections(toxoplasmosis).

b) Inflammatory diseases that occur in severe form and acquire the character of a generalized infection.

c) Side effects some medications (cytostatics, sulfonamides, analgesics, etc.)

d) Hypoplastic and aplastic anemia.

e) Hypersplenism.

f) Agranulocytosis.

g) Severe deficiency body weight with the development of cachexia.

6.Lymphocytes- these are the formed elements of blood, one of the types of leukocytes that are part of the immune system. Their function is to circulate in the blood and tissues in order to provide immune protection against foreign agents that enter the body. In dogs, the normal leukogram is 21-40%, in cats 36-50%

6.1.Lymphocytosis - this increase in the number of lymphocytes is usually observed during viral infections, purulent inflammatory diseases.
1.Relative lymphocytosis called an increase in the percentage of lymphocytes in leukocyte formula at their normal absolute value in the blood.

2.Absolute lymphocytosis, unlike relative, is connected With an increase in the total number of lymphocytes in the blood and occurs in diseases and pathological conditions, accompanied by increased stimulation of lymphopoiesis.

An increase in lymphocytes is most often absolute in nature and occurs when the following diseases and pathological conditions:

a) Viral infections,

b) Acute and chronic lymphocytic leukemia,

c) Lymphosarcoma,

d) Hyperthyroidism.

6.2.Lymphocytopenia- decrease in lymphocytes in the blood.

Lymphocytopenia, as well as lymphocytosis, is divided into relative and absolute.

1.Relative lymphocytopenia - this is a decrease in the percentage of lymphocytes in the leukoformula when normal level the total number of lymphocytes in the blood, it can occur in inflammatory diseases accompanied by an increase in the number of neutrophils in the blood, for example, in pneumonia or purulent inflammation.

2.Absolutelymphocytopenia - This is a decrease in the total number of lymphocytes in the blood. Occurs in diseases and pathological conditions accompanied by inhibition of the lymphocytic germ of hematopoiesis or all germs of hematopoiesis (pancytopenia). Lymphocytopenia also occurs with increased death of lymphocytes.

Platelets

Platelets are essential for blood clotting. Tests may show an increase in platelet counts - this is possible with some diseases or increased activity bone marrow. There may be a decrease in the number of platelets - this is typical for some diseases.

Lymphocytes are elevated in the dog, as evidenced by this change in the blood test. There are many reasons for the phenomenon; it is impossible to make a diagnosis based on this indicator alone.

The veterinarian always takes into account the dog’s condition, clinical symptoms, other examinations. If you took the test yourself, without a prescription, be sure to consult a doctor.

Lymphocytosis can be physiological, not dangerous, but also a sign of disease.

Functions of lymphocytes

The increase in analysis is alarming. Before understanding the reasons, we need to say a few words about their functions. These are the main cells of the immune system.

There are many types, each with its own specific function. A deficiency or excess of one or another has a bad effect on animals and disrupts the balance of the immune system.

All lymphocytes are divided into two main types - T cells and B cells. T lymphocytes are responsible for cellular and antitumor immunity.

They also present an antigen (a specific sequence of proteins) on their surface, which allows B lymphocytes to recognize it and produce antibodies. T cells perform the function of a regulator, among them there are two types of cells.

Suppressors inhibit the production of antibodies, while helpers, on the contrary, stimulate it. This type of lymphocyte plays key role in antiviral immunity.

Along with natural killer cells, tumor cells are recognized and destroyed. B lymphocytes are responsible for the synthesis of antibodies.

These are specific proteins that bind to antigens (foreign viruses, bacteria, allergens). Thus, they neutralize microorganisms and help destroy them to other cells of the immune system.

Dogs have antibodies different types. First, large proteins are formed, consisting of several subunits. They immediately “enter the battle”, but are not contained for long.

After some time, memory antibodies begin to be produced; they can remain in the body for years and protect the dog from infections with which it previously came into contact or was ill. This principle helps ensure immunity during vaccination.

Causes

The norm in dogs is 1.39-4.23×10⁹ or 21-45% of the total. More often it is the percentage in the blood formula that is determined.

If the white blood cell count is elevated, lymphocytosis will be observed. Its shift to the right is characteristic of the following pathologies:

• Acute viral infections.
• Reaction after vaccinations.
• Bacterial diseases.
• Delayed type allergy associated with increased reactivity of T-lymphocytes.
• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
• (relatively rare).
• Acute leukemia in dogs.

Long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antifungals and some other drugs. It happens that increased amount lymphocytes in the blood is not associated with the disease.

This condition is observed in bitches after childbirth; it is completely physiological. The number of these cells grows due to vaccinations; this is a normal and correct process. After all, it means that the dog’s body has responded to the vaccine and has begun to produce antibodies against infections.

What to do

If the test contains lymphocytosis, the owner should immediately go to the doctor. Having seen that the level of lymphocytes in the blood is elevated, the veterinarian will definitely conduct a thorough examination of the dog.

If symptoms respiratory infection, most likely the diagnosis will be viral. At chronic pathologies You should look for hepatitis, Toxoplasma infection, and indolent bacterial infection.

With neoplasms, the number of leukocytes in the blood is much higher than normal, and their structure is often changed. It happens that during a routine examination, the veterinarian does not find the cause that increases this level.

Then he appoints additional examinations– Ultrasound, x-ray, biochemistry, blood and urine tests.

If lymphocytes are elevated, the owner should pay close attention to her health and not delay the visit to the doctor. Timely diagnosis and treatment in many cases save the life of a pet.