Background

One commercial pet food was recalled after acute nephrotoxicity problems in dogs in Korea recently. Some gradients of this pet food were known to be contaminated by fungus.

Aims

This study was performed to examine the characteristics of urological organs by diagnostic imaging in dogs fed by fungal contaminated pet food (Pedigree®, Master Foods) in Korea and to determine the decision of follow-up treatment.

Methods

A total of 127 dogs, from 2003-2006 year, were examined after feeding of contaminated food for some time (from less than 6 months-over 4 years). These dogs were examined about CBC, hematological values, electrolytes and blood dialysis in some cases. After basic exams, survey radiography, ultrasonography and IVP(excretory urography) were also taken.

Results

Radiographic signs of kidneys include small sized-kidney in 16 cases, renomegaly in 1 case, calculi in 45 cases, irregular and indistinct margin in 11 cases, and increased opacity in 10 cases. And cystic calculi in 14 cases and urethral calculi in 1 case were found.

Ultrasonographic signs for kidneys include small sized-kidney in 28 cases, increased cortical echogenicity in 64 cases, calculi in 118 cases and hyperechoic medullary rim sign in 6 cases, indistinct corticomedullary junction in 46 cases, pelvic dilation in 37 cases, and cortical cysts in 6 cases. And ureteral calculi 4 cases, hyperechoic materials without shadowing in 49 cases, and cystic calculi 14 cases were identified.

Conclusion

With these signs, it is concluded that some dogs saved after being fed by fungal contaminated pet food showed abnormal signs mainly in the kidney, then lesser signs in the urinary bladder and urethra.